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Schwartz EKC, Palmisano AN, Petrakis IL, Pietrzak RH, Sofuoglu M. Health correlates of experiential and behavioral avoidance among trauma-exposed veterans. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 176:213-217. [PMID: 38878649 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/29/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Avoidance is a well-documented risk factor for poor mental and physical health outcomes. However, limited research has explored this relationship specifically among trauma-exposed veterans, a population known to be particularly prone to avoidance behavior. Conceptually, avoidance is often divided into two distinct but overlapping constructs - experiential avoidance (resisting distressing internal states) and behavioral avoidance (avoiding or changing experiences that elicit distress). In this exploratory survey study, we examined associations between behavioral and experiential avoidance and mental, physical, and cognitive functioning, as well as quality of life. METHODS Veterans with a trauma history (NÂ =Â 89) completed a 121-item survey containing validated assessments to examine several mental and physical health and wellness-related variables. Correlations between experiential avoidance and outcome measures, and behavioral avoidance and outcome measures, were explored. Multivariable linear regression analyses were conducted to explore the association between experiential and behavioral avoidance on mental health outcomes. In addition, we conducted exploratory analyses in which we investigated these correlations in those who screened positive for PTSD versus those who did not, and between different types of behavioral avoidance and major outcomes. RESULTS Experiential avoidance was moderately correlated with distress from depressive symptoms, distress related to past trauma, and health-related and cognitive dysfunction. Experiential Avoidance was weakly correlated with distress from anxiety symptoms and poorer quality of life. Behavioral avoidance was moderately correlated with distress from depressive and anxiety symptoms, distress related to past trauma, and cognitive dysfunction, and was weakly correlated with health-related dysfunction and poorer quality of life. Results from multivariable analyses revealed that experiential avoidance was associated with greater distress related to depressive symptoms and past trauma, and behavioral avoidance was associated with greater distress related to anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, and past trauma. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that avoidance negatively influences major domains of mental and physical health as well as functioning and health-related quality of life in trauma-exposed veterans. They further indicate that behavioral and experiential avoidance may be differentially linked to mental health outcomes. The results support the idea that avoidance may be an important marker for psychosocial functioning and may serve as a treatment target in trauma-exposed veterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth K C Schwartz
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Psychiatry, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Alexandra N Palmisano
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Psychiatry, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ismene L Petrakis
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Psychiatry, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Robert H Pietrzak
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Clinical Neurosciences Division, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Mehmet Sofuoglu
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Psychiatry, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA.
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Miller ML, Laifer LM, Thomas EBK, Grekin R, O'Hara MW, Brock RL. From pregnancy to the postpartum: Unraveling the complexities of symptom profiles among trauma-exposed women. J Affect Disord 2024; 357:11-22. [PMID: 38663559 PMCID: PMC11149003 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.04.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many women experience new onset or worsening of existing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms during pregnancy and the early postpartum period. However, perinatal PTSD symptom profiles and their predictors are not well understood. METHODS Participants (N = 614 community adults) completed self-report measures across three methodologically similar longitudinal studies. Mixture modeling was used to identify latent subgroups of trauma-exposed women with distinct patterns of symptoms at pregnancy, 1-month, and 3-month postpartum. RESULTS Mixture modeling demonstrated two classes of women with relatively homogenous profiles (i.e., low vs. high symptoms) during pregnancy (n = 237). At 1-month postpartum (n = 391), results suggested a five-class solution: low symptoms, PTSD only, depression with primary appetite loss, depression, and comorbid PTSD and depression. At 3-months postpartum (n = 488), three classes were identified: low symptoms, elevated symptoms, and primary PTSD. Greater degree of exposure to interpersonal trauma and reproductive trauma, younger age, and minoritized racial/ethnic identity were associated with increased risk for elevated symptoms across the perinatal period. LIMITATIONS Only a subset of potential predictors of PTSD symptoms were examined. Replication with a larger and more racially and ethnically diverse sample of pregnant women is needed. CONCLUSIONS Results highlight limitations of current perinatal mental health screening practices, which could overlook women with elevations in symptoms (e.g., intrusions) that are not routinely assessed relative to others (e.g., depressed mood), and identify important risk factors for perinatal PTSD symptoms to inform screening and referral.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle L Miller
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Goodman Hall/IU Health Neuroscience Center, Suite 2800, 355 W. 16th St., Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States of America; University of Iowa, Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, G60 Psychological and Brain Sciences Building, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America.
| | - Lauren M Laifer
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Department of Psychology, 238 Burnett Hall, Lincoln, NE 68588, United States of America
| | - Emily B K Thomas
- University of Iowa, Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, G60 Psychological and Brain Sciences Building, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America
| | - Rebecca Grekin
- University of Iowa, Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, G60 Psychological and Brain Sciences Building, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America
| | - Michael W O'Hara
- University of Iowa, Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, G60 Psychological and Brain Sciences Building, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America
| | - Rebecca L Brock
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Department of Psychology, 238 Burnett Hall, Lincoln, NE 68588, United States of America
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Reed DE, Fischer IC, Williams RM, Na PJ, Pietrzak RH. Co-occurring Chronic Pain and PTSD Among US Military Veterans: Prevalence, Correlates, and Functioning. J Gen Intern Med 2024:10.1007/s11606-024-08803-w. [PMID: 38780882 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-024-08803-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of co-occurring chronic pain and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has yet to be established in a nationally representative sample of US veterans, and little is known about the individual contributing roles of these disorders to the psychiatric and functional burden of this comorbidity. OBJECTIVE To determine the prevalence of chronic pain, PTSD, and co-occurring chronic pain and PTSD, and psychiatric comorbidities and psychosocial functioning in these groups. DESIGN Data were analyzed from the National Health and Resilience in Veterans Study, which surveyed a nationally representative sample of US veterans. PARTICIPANTS Veterans (n=4069) were classified into four groups: control (i.e., no PTSD or chronic pain), chronic pain only, PTSD only, and co-occurring chronic pain and PTSD. MAIN MEASURES A probable PTSD diagnosis was established using the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5, and a chronic pain diagnosis using a self-report item that queried health care professional diagnoses. Psychiatric and functional status were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-4, Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test, Screen of Drug Use, Suicide Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised, Short Form Health Survey-8, Brief Inventory of Psychosocial Functioning, and Medical Outcomes Study Cognitive Functioning Scale. KEY RESULTS A total of 3.8% of veterans reported both probable PTSD and a diagnosis of chronic pain. Relative to veterans with chronic pain alone, those with co-occurring chronic pain and probable PTSD were more likely to screen positive for psychiatric disorders (odds ratios [ORs]=2.59-9.88) and scored lower on measures of psychosocial functioning (Cohen's ds=0.38-1.43). Relative to veterans with probable PTSD only, those with co-occurring chronic pain and probable PTSD were more likely to have attempted suicide (OR=4.79; 95%CI, 1.81-12.69). CONCLUSIONS Results underscore the importance of whole health care that considers a broad range of health and functional domains in the assessment and treatment of co-occurring chronic pain and PTSD in veterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- David E Reed
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Ian C Fischer
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Rhonda M Williams
- Rehabilitation Care Service, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Peter J Na
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Robert H Pietrzak
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
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Meijer L, Franz MR, Deković M, van Ee E, Finkenauer C, Kleber RJ, van de Putte EM, Thomaes K. Towards a more comprehensive understanding of PTSD and parenting. Compr Psychiatry 2023; 127:152423. [PMID: 37722204 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2023.152423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on parenting and the parent-child relationship has been well-documented in the scientific literature. However, some conceptual and methodological challenges within this research field remain. PROCEDURE We reflect on a number of challenges that we identified while examining the literature in preparation of an individual participant data meta-analysis on the relationships between PTSD and parenting. FINDINGS We address 1) the presence of 'trauma-islands'; 2) the need for transdiagnostic theoretical frameworks for mechanisms between PTSD and parenting; 3) the lack of developmental perspectives; 4) the overuse of self-reported retrospective measures; 5) the need to study more diverse samples and cultural contexts; and 6) the lack of research on resilience and post-traumatic growth in parenting. Based on these reflections, we offer suggestions on strategies for responding to these challenges through: 1) welcoming open science; 2) working towards shared theoretical frameworks; 3) doing more longitudinal research 4) expanding the methodological palette; 5) centering lived experience; and 6) taking systemic inequality into account. CONCLUSION With this commentary, we aim to open a discussion on next steps towards a more comprehensive understanding of the association between PTSD and parenting, and inspire collaborative research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurien Meijer
- Sinai Centrum Arkin Mental Health Care, Amstelveen, Laan van de Helende Meesters 2, 1186 AM Amstelveen, the Netherlands; Department of Interdisciplinary Social Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 14, 3584 CH Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Molly R Franz
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland Baltimore County, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore, MD 21250, United States
| | - Maja Deković
- Department of Clinical Child and Family Studies, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 1, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Elisa van Ee
- Psychotraumacentrum Zuid Nederland, Den Bosch, Bethaniestraat 10, 5211 LJ 's Hertogenbosch, the Netherlands; Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Thomas Van Aquinostraat 4, 6525 GD Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Catrin Finkenauer
- Department of Interdisciplinary Social Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 14, 3584 CH Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Rolf J Kleber
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 1, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands; ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, Heidelberglaan 1, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Elise M van de Putte
- Wilhelmina Children's Hospital / University Medical Center Utrecht, Lundlaan 6, 3584 EA Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Kathleen Thomaes
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Centre/VUmc, Laan van de Helende Meesters 2, 1186 AM Amstelveen, the Netherlands
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Prudenzi A, Graham CD, Rogerson O, O'Connor DB. Mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic: exploring the role of psychological flexibility and stress-related variables. Psychol Health 2023; 38:1378-1401. [PMID: 35073803 DOI: 10.1080/08870446.2021.2020272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Understanding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and the psychological factors associated can help inform subsequent interventions to protect psychological health. In particular, psychological flexibility has been shown to be an important target for intervention. The current study aimed to investigate associations between protective factors (state mindfulness, values and self-compassion) and risk factors (COVID-19 stress, worry and rumination) for mental health during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. DESIGN 439 participants completed three online surveys during the 1st wave of the pandemic in the UK: Time 1 (April 1-5th 2020), Time 2 (April 15-19th April), Time 3 (May 13-17th 2020). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Measures of wellbeing, burnout and life satisfaction. RESULTS Psychological health outcome measures were found to be lower (worse) than normative comparison data during the early stages of the UK lockdown, while COVID-19 stress and worry reduced over time. Multilevel models found that higher levels of trait and state measures of psychological flexibility and self-compassion were associated with better psychological health across time points. Higher levels of COVID-19 stress, worry and rumination were also associated with poorer psychological health. CONCLUSION The results showed that mindfulness, values and self-compassion are potential targets for intervention.
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Laifer LM, DiLillo D, Brock RL. Prenatal negative affectivity and trauma-related distress predict mindful parenting during toddler age: Examining parent-infant bonding as a mechanism. Dev Psychopathol 2023; 35:1036-1050. [PMID: 34649640 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579421000894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Despite findings demonstrating the importance of parental present-centered awareness, factors undermining mindful parenting have received less attention. Increasingly, evidence points to parental psychopathology as a salient risk factor for parenting difficulties. Thus, the goal of the present study was to investigate specific dimensions of parental trauma-related distress and general negative affectivity during pregnancy as predictors of mindful parenting during toddler age. Parental psychopathology, parent-infant bonding, and mindful parenting were assessed in a sample of heterosexual couples (N = 159) across four waves of data collection spanning pregnancy to child age two. Data were analyzed using path analysis within a dyadic framework. Results demonstrated the unique impact of maternal trauma-related distress during pregnancy (e.g., intrusions and avoidance) on facets of mindful parenting more than two years later. Further, among both mothers and fathers, general negative affectivity common across internalizing disorders undermined mindful parenting through impaired parent-infant bonding. Findings highlight the need for early intervention efforts that incorporate mindfulness strategies to reduce subthreshold symptoms of prenatal psychopathology, promote healthy bonding, and improve parental awareness and self-regulation, thereby enhancing the overall parent-child relationship.
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Knobloch LK, Monk JK, MacDermid Wadsworth SM. Relationship Maintenance among Military Couples. JOURNAL OF SOCIAL AND PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS 2023; 40:734-772. [PMID: 37200941 PMCID: PMC10191153 DOI: 10.1177/02654075221105025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
A burgeoning body of research on the relationship maintenance of military couples over the past two decades suggests the time is right to organize, assimilate, and critique the literature. We conducted a systematic review informed by the integrative model of relationship maintenance (Ogolsky et al., 2017) that considered issues of intersectionality (Crenshaw, 1991). Our literature search identified 81 relevant journal articles representing 62 unique samples. With respect to theory, 59.3% of the journal articles employed one or more formal theoretical frameworks. In terms of research design, 88.7% of the studies focused on the U.S. military, 83.9% of the studies recruited convenience samples, 54.8% of the studies utilized quantitative methods, and 30.6% of the studies collected longitudinal data. Among the studies reporting sample demographics, 96.8% of participants were married, 77.2% of participants identified as non-Hispanic White, and only one same-sex relationship was represented. Our narrative synthesis integrated findings about relationship maintenance from studies examining (a) relationship maintenance overtly, (b) communicating to stay connected across the deployment cycle, (c) disclosure and protective buffering, (d) support from a partner, (e) dyadic coping, and (f) caregiving and accommodating a partner's symptoms. We interpret our results with an eye toward advancing theory, research, and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - J. Kale Monk
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, University of Missouri
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8
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Miethe S, Wigger J, Wartemann A, Fuchs FO, Trautmann S. Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms and its Association with Rumination, Thought Suppression and Experiential Avoidance: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JOURNAL OF PSYCHOPATHOLOGY AND BEHAVIORAL ASSESSMENT 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s10862-023-10022-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
AbstractPosttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a severe mental disorder causing high individual and societal costs. The use of maladaptive emotion regulation (ER) strategies has been identified as a potential contributing factor. This meta-analysis aimed to quantify the associations between PTSD symptoms and rumination, thought suppression and experiential avoidance. The systematic literature search resulted in 5574 studies, 75 of which were included in the analysis. From those eligible studies 189 effect sizes were obtained. For symptoms of posttraumatic stress, large effects were found for associations with rumination (r = .52) and experiential avoidance (r = .48), whereas a medium effect size was found for thought suppression (r = .29). With respect to different PTSD symptom clusters, associations ranged between r = .35 and r = .41 for associations with intrusive re-experiencing, between r = .39 and r = .41 for associations with avoidance, between r = .50 and r = .53 for associations with alterations in cognitions and mood and between r = .41 and r = .45 for associations with alterations in arousal and activity. Few available studies provide some evidence that associations might be somewhat reduced but still substantial in longitudinal compared to cross-sectional studies. These findings provide valuable targets for future investigations with the long-term goal of improving targeted interventions for the prevention and treatment of PTSD symptoms.
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McKay T. When State Violence Comes Home: From Criminal Legal System Exposure to Intimate Partner Violence in a Time of Mass Incarceration. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2023; 38:2683-2715. [PMID: 35696614 DOI: 10.1177/08862605221106141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Exceptionally high rates of partner violence perpetration are evident among men returning from prison. Two bodies of scholarship, one on family stress and another on exposure to state violence, each suggest that criminal legal system exposure could promote partner violence perpetration via changes in men's behavioral health and interpersonal approach and in couples' conflict dynamics. Such relationships have not been tested in quantitative research. Structural equation models were fitted to longitudinal, couples-based survey data from the Multi-site Family Study on Incarceration, Parenting, and Partnering. Participants included men returning from a state prison term in five U.S. states (N = 1112) and their committed intimate or co-parenting partners (N = 1112). Models tested hypothesized pathways from three dimensions of criminal legal system exposure to later partner violence perpetration. In fitted models, men's childhood criminal legal system exposure predicts their post-prison partner violence perpetration via adult post-traumatic stress symptoms, reactivity, avoidance, and dysfunctional couple conflict dynamics. Men's cumulative criminal legal system exposure in adulthood predicts their post-prison partner violence perpetration via addiction and dysfunctional couple conflict. These initial results suggest that mass-scale incarceration could worsen partner violence via men's psychological and interpersonal adaptations to criminal legal system contact, particularly when such contact is sustained or occurs at a developmentally significant period in the life course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasseli McKay
- Department of Sociology, 3065Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
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10
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Zhang J, Zhang N, Piehler TF, Gewirtz AH. Emotion Regulation Difficulties in Military Fathers Magnify Their Benefit from a Parenting Program. PREVENTION SCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH 2023; 24:237-248. [PMID: 34333734 DOI: 10.1007/s11121-021-01287-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Military service members who were exposed to combat-related traumatic events may exhibit emotion regulation problems, which can compromise emotion-related parenting practices (ERPPs). After Deployment, Adaptive Parenting Tools (ADAPT) is a preventive intervention developed for military families to improve parenting behaviors, including ERPPs. Parental emotion regulation difficulties may affect parents' responses to this parenting program. Thus, this study aimed to use a baseline target moderated mediation design to examine the intent-to-treat (ITT) effect of the ADAPT program on deployed fathers' emotion-related parenting practices (ERPPs) at the 1-year follow-up as well as the moderation and mediation effect of fathers' emotion regulation difficulties. The sample consisted of 181 deployed fathers and their 4-13-year-old children. At both baseline and 1Â year, fathers' ERPPs (i.e., positive engagement, withdrawal avoidance, reactivity-coercion, and distress avoidance) were observed during a series of structured parent-child interaction tasks. Results of path analyses showed no ITT effects on fathers' ERPPs, but emotion regulation difficulties significantly moderated ITT effects on distress avoidance. Fathers with higher levels of emotion regulation difficulties at baseline showed decreases in distress avoidance behaviors at 1Â year if randomized to the intervention condition. Emotion regulation difficulties also significantly mediated the program's effect on reductions in reactivity coercion for fathers with high levels of emotion regulation difficulties at baseline. These findings highlight parental emotion regulation as a key baseline target of the ADAPT program and provide insight into how and for whom a parenting program improves parenting practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingchen Zhang
- Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, Minneapolis, USA
| | - Na Zhang
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Stamford, USA
| | - Timothy F Piehler
- Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, Minneapolis, USA
| | - Abigail H Gewirtz
- Department of Family Social Science and Institute of Child Development, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, Minneapolis, USA.
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Zerach G. Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms and Parenting Competence among Israeli Male Veterans: The Mediating Roles of Experiential Avoidance and Parental Reflective Functioning. JOURNAL OF CHILD AND FAMILY STUDIES 2023; 32:301-313. [PMID: 35350596 PMCID: PMC8945870 DOI: 10.1007/s10826-022-02288-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Although empirical studies have documented associations between posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and parenting among various high-risk populations, there is a relatively limited amount of research on paternal parenting among veterans. Moreover, the understanding of possible mechanisms which may account for this effect is severely lacking. This study examined associations between military related PTSS and parenting sense of competence (PSOC) among veteran fathers. Furthermore, we examined the mediating role of experiential avoidance (EA) and parental reflective functioning (PRF) in the association between PTSS and PSOC. Participants were 189 Israel Defense Forces (IDF) male combat veterans (mean age = 30.03) who completed a set of validated self-report questionnaires in a cross-sectional design study. Results showed negative associations between PTSS and PSOC-parental satisfaction but not parental efficacy. Furthermore, EA mediated the association between PTSS and parental satisfaction and efficacy; PRF- Pre mentalizing modes mediated the association between PTSS and parental satisfaction. Our findings imply that EA and PRF may serve as mechanisms of the association between PTSS and PSOC among veteran fathers. These findings are discussed in light of a psychological trauma perspective, and clinical implications to increase fathers' mentalization and psychological flexibility are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gadi Zerach
- Department of Psychology, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
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12
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Janssen PGJ, Stoltz S, Cillessen AHN, van Ee E. Deployment-related PTSD symptomatology and social functioning: Probing the mediating roles of emotion regulation and mentalization in an outpatient veteran sample. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 156:444-450. [PMID: 36327767 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.10.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Deployment-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) impacts social functioning in families. Therefore, it is important to examine the factors that contribute to social functioning in families that are confronted with deployment-related PTSD. The goal of this study was to assess the association between PTSD symptom severity and social functioning using self-report questionnaires in an outpatient veteran sample and to test the mediating roles of emotion regulation (Study 1, NÂ =Â 100) and mentalization (Study 2, NÂ =Â 38). Study 1 demonstrated that emotion regulation problems fully mediated PTSD associated family dysfunctioning. Study 2 did not demonstrate a mediation role of mentalization, but also did not demonstrate an association between PTSD and social dysfunctioning. Maladaptive mentalization was associated with poor child adjustment. Critically, a between-study comparison revealed that PTSD symptom severity was significantly higher in Study 1 than in Study 2. Overall, our findings suggest that social dysfunctioning may only appear when a given severity threshold of PTSD is reached, in which emotion regulation might be a key clinical factor. Maladaptive mentalization may be critical for post-deployment child adjustment. Future research should further examine social functioning in samples with different PTSD severity profiles and include the role of mentalization. Longitudinal data are needed to gain further insight into the causal relationships among the factors considered and the etiological pathways that lead to developing social dysfunction over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petrus G J Janssen
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Psychotraumacentrum Zuid Nederland, Reinier van Arkel, 's-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands.
| | - Sabine Stoltz
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Elisa van Ee
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Psychotraumacentrum Zuid Nederland, Reinier van Arkel, 's-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
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Sijercic I, Liebman RE, Ip J, Whitfield KM, Ennis N, Sumantry D, Sippel LM, Fredman SJ, Monson CM. A systematic review and meta-analysis of individual and couple therapies for posttraumatic stress disorder: Clinical and intimate relationship outcomes. J Anxiety Disord 2022; 91:102613. [PMID: 35970071 DOI: 10.1016/j.janxdis.2022.102613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
The association between symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in adults and difficulties in intimate relationships is well documented. Growing literature suggests that interpersonally-oriented therapies, such as couple and family interventions, may lead to improvements in both PTSD symptoms and intimate relationship functioning. However, it is unknown how individual PTSD treatments compare to couple/family interventions in relational outcomes. The present study was a systematic review and meta-analysis of individual and couple/family treatments to examine changes in PTSD symptoms and intimate relationship functioning. Twelve couple treatment studies with 13 unique samples and 7 individual treatment studies with 9 unique samples met inclusion criteria. No family-based treatments were identified. Meta-analytic findings indicated moderate to large reductions in PTSD symptoms for both couple and individual studies. Small but significant improvements in intimate relationship functioning across individual and couple studies were observed. Moderation analysis suggested that across both individual and couple treatment formats, trauma-focused treatments had larger effects on PTSD symptoms. Trauma-focused treatments had larger effects on intimate relationship functioning for individual studies. Military status did not moderate outcomes. This study supports the utility of both individual and couple treatment formats for treating PTSD and provides preliminary support for these modalities for also enhancing intimate relationship functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rachel E Liebman
- Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Canada; University Health Network, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jennifer Ip
- Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Naomi Ennis
- Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Lauren M Sippel
- National Center for PTSD, USA; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, NH, USA
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Bruno F, Vozzo F, Arcuri D, Maressa R, La Cava E, Malvaso A, Lau C, Chiesi F. The longitudinal association between Perceived Stress, PTSD Symptoms, and Post-Traumatic Growth during the COVID-19 Pandemic: the role of coping strategies and psychological inflexibility. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022:1-16. [PMID: 35910236 PMCID: PMC9323876 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-03502-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The present study investigates the mediating roles of psychological inflexibility and differential coping strategies on perceived stress and post-traumatic symptoms and growth in the context of COVID-19. Study one recruited 662 participants (54.8% women; Mage = 40.64 years, SD = 13.04) who completed a cross-sectional questionnaire. It was proposed that orientation to the problem, avoidance strategies, psychological inflexibility, and positive attitude were mediators for the positive association between perceived stress and PTSD symptoms. The fit indices for the path model were excellent: CFI = 0.977, TLI = 0.950, RMSEA = 0.057 [90%CI = 0.043-0.081], and SRMS = 0.042. Gender and stressful events encountered had indirect effects on the endogenous variables. In study two, 128 participants (57.8% women; Mage = 42.30, SD = 12.08) were assessed for post-traumatic growth one year later. Psychological inflexibility and orientation acted as mediators between perceived stress and PTSD symptoms. Furthermore, a novel path model was constructed in which psychological inflexibility and orientation to the problem as mediators for perceived stress and PTSD symptoms. The indices for the path model were excellent: CFI = 0.99, TLI = 0.97, RMSEA = 0.055 [90%CI = 0.001-0.144], and SRMS = 0.49. Furthermore, PTSD symptoms, psychological inflexibility, and orientation to the problem predicted post-traumatic growth. Specifically, both orientation to the problem (β = .06 [90%CI: .01;.13]) and psychological inflexibility (β = .14 [90%CI: .08;.26]) had an indirect effect on post-traumatic growth. Overall, these results significantly contribute to the literature as orientation to the problem positively predicted PTSD symptoms and post-traumatic growth one year later while psychological inflexibility predicted PTSD symptoms and less post-traumatic growth one year later. These results underline the importance of assessing both symptomology and psychological growth to determine adaptive coping strategies in specific contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Bruno
- Regional Neurogenetic Centre (CRN), Department of Primary Care, ASP Catanzaro, Viale A. Perugini, Lamezia Terme, CZ Italy
- Association for Neurogenetic Research (ARN), Lamezia Terme, CZ Italy
- Academy of Cognitive Behavioral Sciences of Calabria (ASCoC), Lamezia Terme, Italy
| | - Francesca Vozzo
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Domenico Arcuri
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Raffaella Maressa
- Academy of Cognitive Behavioral Sciences of Calabria (ASCoC), Lamezia Terme, Italy
| | - Elisabetta La Cava
- Academy of Cognitive Behavioral Sciences of Calabria (ASCoC), Lamezia Terme, Italy
| | - Antonio Malvaso
- Neurology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Chloe Lau
- Department of Psychology, Western University, London, ON Canada
| | - Francesca Chiesi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug, and Child’s Health (NEUROFARBA), Section of Psychology, University of Florence, Via S.Salvi 12, 50135 Florence, Italy
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Bielawski T, Drapała J, Krowicki P, Stańczykiewicz B, Frydecka D. Trauma Disrupts Reinforcement Learning in Rats-A Novel Animal Model of Chronic Stress Exposure. Front Behav Neurosci 2022; 16:903100. [PMID: 35663358 PMCID: PMC9157238 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2022.903100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Trauma, as well as chronic stress that characterizes a modern fast-paced lifestyle, contributes to numerous psychopathologies and psychological problems. Psychiatric patients with traumas, as well as healthy individuals who experienced traumas in the past, are often characterized by diminished cognitive abilities. In our protocol, we used an animal model to explore the influence of chronic trauma on cognitive abilities and behavior in the group of 20 rats (Rattus norvegicus). The experimental group was introduced to chronic (12 consecutive days) exposure to predator odor (bobcat urine). We measured the reinforcement learning of each individual before and after the exposition via the Probabilistic Selection Task (PST) and we used Social Interaction Test (SIT) to assess the behavioral changes of each individual before and after the trauma. In the experimental group, there was a significant decrease in reinforcement learning after exposure to a single trauma (Wilcoxon Test, p = 0.034) as well as after 11 days of chronic trauma (Wilcoxon-test, p = 0.01) in comparison to pre-trauma performance. The control group, which was not exposed to predator odor but underwent the same testing protocol, did not present significant deterioration in reinforcement learning. In cross-group comparisons, there was no difference between the experimental and control group in PST before odor protocol (U Mann-Whitney two-sided, p = 0.909). After exposure to chronic trauma, the experimental group deteriorated in PST performance compared to control (U Mann-Whitney Two-sided, p = 0.0005). In SIT, the experimental group spent less time in an Interaction Zone with an unfamiliar rat after trauma protocol (Wilcoxon two-sided test, p = 0.019). Major strengths of our models are: (1) protocol allows investigating reinforcement learning before and after exposition to chronic trauma, with the same group of rats, (2) translational scope, as the PST is displayed on touchscreen, similarly to human studies, (3) protocol delivers chronic trauma that impairs reward learning, but behaviorally does not induce full-blown anhedonia, thus rats performed voluntarily throughout all the procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Bielawski
- Department of Psychiatry, Wrocław Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Jarosław Drapała
- Department of Computer Science and Systems Engineering, Faculty of Information and Communication Technology, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Paweł Krowicki
- Department of Laser Technologies, Automation and Production Management, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wrocław, Poland
| | | | - Dorota Frydecka
- Department of Psychiatry, Wrocław Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
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16
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Franz MR, Kumar SA, Brock RL, Calvi JL, DiLillo D. Parenting behaviors of mothers with posttraumatic stress: The roles of cortisol reactivity and negative emotion. JOURNAL OF FAMILY PSYCHOLOGY : JFP : JOURNAL OF THE DIVISION OF FAMILY PSYCHOLOGY OF THE AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION (DIVISION 43) 2022; 36:130-139. [PMID: 33970654 PMCID: PMC8578576 DOI: 10.1037/fam0000865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Although posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with negative family outcomes, including parenting challenges, little is known about the biological and emotional processes that might underlie this association. The present project addressed this gap by examining associations between maternal PTSD and parenting behaviors in a lab setting. We expected that PTSD would be associated with more ineffective parenting behaviors and that negative emotion and cortisol reactivity would mediate this relation. A total of 78 mothers and their toddler-aged children completed a task designed to elicit parental responses to typical instances of child misbehavior. Salivary cortisol was collected from mothers prior and subsequent to the lab paradigm and mothers provided ratings of their experienced emotion while viewing a video of the interaction. Contrary to hypotheses, cortisol reactivity did not mediate associations between PTSD and parenting. However, findings suggest that PTSD is associated with greater permissive parenting behaviors, and mothers with even subthreshold symptoms of PTSD may experience more negative emotion during challenging parent-child interactions that ultimately interferes with parenting. Mothers with PTSD may benefit from interventions that focus on modifying the intensity of their negative emotions in the context of child misbehavior to more effectively set limits in everyday discipline encounters. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).
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17
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Zhang J, Buchanan GJR, Monn AR, Gewirtz AH. Inhibitory Control Moderates the Intervention Effects of a Preventive Parenting Program on Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms Among Male Service Members. J Trauma Stress 2022; 35:235-245. [PMID: 34388288 PMCID: PMC9707609 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Military servicemembers face substantial challenges due to war-related trauma exposure, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Individuals with deficits in inhibitory control (IC) may have an increased risk of developing PTSD due to a reduced ability to regulate their cognitive responses to and disengage from trauma-related stimuli. After Deployment, Adaptive Parenting Tools (ADAPT) is a mindfulness-infused parenting program for military families that has also been found to have crossover effects on parental mental health. The present study examined whether fathers' IC at baseline affected their response to this emotional skills-focused intervention and further influenced their PTSD symptoms 1 year later. The sample included 282 male National Guard and Reserve (NG/R) service members who had recently been deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan. Fathers were randomly assigned to either the ADAPT program or a control condition, with IC measured at baseline and PTSD symptoms measured at baseline and 1-year follow-up. Intent-to-treat analyses revealed no significant main effect of the intervention on fathers' PTSD symptoms. However, fathers' IC moderated intervention effects on PTSD symptoms, f2 = 0.03. The intervention had more beneficial effects on reducing fathers' PTSD symptoms for participants with low IC at baseline. These findings are consistent with compensatory effects in the risk moderation hypothesis, which suggests that prevention or intervention programs are more effective for high-risk subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingchen Zhang
- Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Gretchen J. R. Buchanan
- Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Amy R. Monn
- Green Hills Family Psych, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Abigail H. Gewirtz
- Department of Family Social Science and Institute of Child Development, University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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18
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Baker LD, Stroman JC, Kalantar EA, Bock RC, Berghoff CR. Indirect Associations Between Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms and Other Psychiatric Symptoms, Alcohol Use, and Well-being via Psychological Flexibility Among Police Officers. J Trauma Stress 2022; 35:55-65. [PMID: 33821526 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Police officers experience a high number of potentially traumatic events (PTEs) often associated with elevated posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS). In addition, PTSS are related to co-occurring psychiatric symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression), alcohol misuse, and low perceived well-being. Yet, behavioral processes that may account for the associations between PTSS and unfavorable outcomes remain unspecified. Psychological flexibility, or one's response to private experiences (e.g., PTE-related memories) with an open, aware, and active approach, may be one such process. The present study aimed to evaluate psychological flexibility as both a mediator and moderator of PTSS and commonly co-occurring psychiatric symptoms, alcohol use, and general well-being, using cross-sectional data provided by a sample of police officers (N = 459) recruited from three regionally distributed U.S. police agencies. Structural equation modeling indicated a well-fitting model wherein psychological flexibility indirectly accounted for associations among PTSS and endogenous outcomes, χ2 (107, N = 457) = 225.33, p < .001, CFI = .99, TLI = .98, RMSEA = .05, 90% CI [.04, .06], SRMR = .03. Psychological flexibility also moderated associations between PTSS and psychiatric symptoms, B = 1.58 (SE = 0.22), p < .001; and well-being, B = -3.84 (SE = 0.46), p < .001. Although additional research is needed, these preliminary results suggest psychological flexibility may be a behavioral process that accounts for negative outcomes associated with PTSS and a productive intervention target in the context of PTSS and generalized distress. Further research regarding the role of psychological flexibility in PTSS-related outcomes for police officers appears warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas D Baker
- Department of Psychology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota, USA
| | - Joel C Stroman
- Department of Psychology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota, USA
| | - Emily A Kalantar
- Department of Psychology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota, USA
| | - Rachel C Bock
- Department of Psychology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota, USA
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19
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Mooren T, van Ee E, Hein I, Bala J. Combatting intergenerational effects of psychotrauma with multifamily therapy. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:867305. [PMID: 36819942 PMCID: PMC9929345 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.867305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
There is growing evidence that parental trauma is associated with psychosocial disorders, externalizing and internalizing problems, and higher sensitivity to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in children. Recent research findings suggest multidimensional relational, psychological, and neurobiological interrelated pathways of intergenerational influence. Moreover, the intergenerational effects of parental trauma need to be understood within a broader systemic context, as a part of family adaptation. This article explores research findings and clinical practice to enhance our understanding of intergenerational processes and presents directions for therapeutic interventions. A trauma-focused multi-family therapy, aiming to restrict the relational consequences of parental trauma and strengthen family resilience, is described. The proposition is that to facilitate and improve the quality of parent-child interaction in response to psychotrauma, fostering emotion regulation capacities and mentalization is crucial. These efforts offered through family group interventions may benefit various families coping with adversity in culturally diverse societies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trudy Mooren
- ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, Netherlands.,Department of Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Elisa van Ee
- Psychotraumacentrum Zuid-Nederland, Reinier van Arkel, 's-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands.,Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Irma Hein
- Department of Child and Youth Psychiatry, Amsterdam Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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20
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Blakey SM, Halverson TF, Evans MK, Patel TA, Hair LP, Meyer EC, DeBeer BB, Beckham JC, Pugh MJ, Calhoun PS, Kimbrel NA. Experiential avoidance is associated with medical and mental health diagnoses in a national sample of deployed Gulf War veterans. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 142:17-24. [PMID: 34314990 PMCID: PMC8429252 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.07.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
A substantial minority of deployed Gulf War veterans developed posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and several chronic illnesses. Although military combat and exposure to certain nuclear, biological, and chemical agents (NBCs) increase risk for post-deployment health problems, they do not fully explain many Gulf War veteran health diagnoses and are not viable treatment targets. Experiential avoidance (EA; one's unwillingness to remain in contact with unpleasant internal experiences) is a modifiable psychosocial risk factor associated with PTSD and depression in veterans as well as pain and gastrointestinal diseases in the general population. In this study, we recruited a national sample of deployed Gulf War veterans (NÂ =Â 454) to test the hypothesis that greater EA would be significantly associated with higher lifetime odds of PTSD, depression, "Gulf War Illness" (GWI/CMI), and other chronic illnesses common in this veteran cohort. Participants completed a self-report battery assessing demographic, military-related, and health-related information. Multivariate analyses showed that after adjusting for age, sex, race, combat exposure, and NBC exposure, worse EA was associated with higher lifetime odds of PTSD, depression GWI/CMI, gastrointestinal problems, irritable bowel syndrome, arthritis, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue syndrome (ORs ranged 1.25 to 2.89; effect sizes ranged small to large), but not asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Our findings suggest medical and mental health providers alike should assess for EA and potentially target EA as part of a comprehensive, biopsychosocial approach to improving Gulf War veterans' health and wellbeing. Study limitations and future research directions are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon M Blakey
- Durham VA Health Care System, 508 Fulton Street, Durham, NC, 27705, USA; VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, 3022 Croasdaile Dr., Durham, NC, 27705, USA.
| | - Tate F Halverson
- Durham VA Health Care System, 508 Fulton Street, Durham, NC, 27705, USA.
| | - Mariah K Evans
- Duke University School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, DUMC 3625, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
| | - Tapan A Patel
- Durham VA Health Care System, 508 Fulton Street, Durham, NC, 27705, USA.
| | - Lauren P Hair
- Durham VA Health Care System, 508 Fulton Street, Durham, NC, 27705, USA; Duke University School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, DUMC 3625, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
| | - Eric C Meyer
- University of Pittsburgh Department of Rehabilitation Science and Technology, 4028 Forbes Tower, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA.
| | - Bryann B DeBeer
- VA Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, 1700 N Wheeling St, G-3-116M, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, 12631 E 17th Ave, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Jean C Beckham
- Durham VA Health Care System, 508 Fulton Street, Durham, NC, 27705, USA; VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, 3022 Croasdaile Dr., Durham, NC, 27705, USA; Duke University School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, DUMC 3625, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
| | - Mary J Pugh
- VA Salt Lake City Healthcare System, 500 Foothill Dr, Salt Lake City, UT, 84148, USA; University of Utah School of Medicine Department of Medicine, 30 N. 1900 E, Salt Lake City, UT, 84132, USA.
| | - Patrick S Calhoun
- Durham VA Health Care System, 508 Fulton Street, Durham, NC, 27705, USA; VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, 3022 Croasdaile Dr., Durham, NC, 27705, USA; Duke University School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, DUMC 3625, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
| | - Nathan A Kimbrel
- Durham VA Health Care System, 508 Fulton Street, Durham, NC, 27705, USA; VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, 3022 Croasdaile Dr., Durham, NC, 27705, USA; Duke University School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, DUMC 3625, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
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21
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Investigating the role of psychological inflexibility, mindfulness, and self-compassion in PTSD. JOURNAL OF CONTEXTUAL BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2021.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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22
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Feingold D, Zerach G. Emotion regulation and experiential avoidance moderate the association between posttraumatic symptoms and alcohol use disorder among Israeli combat veterans. Addict Behav 2021; 115:106776. [PMID: 33348279 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2020.106776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION the association between Posttraumatic Stress symptoms (PTSS) and Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) among combat veterans is well established. However, little is known concerning the intertwining effect of distress oriented coping mechanisms on this association. In this study, we sought to explore the moderating role of experiential avoidance (EA), cognitive reappraisal (CR) and expressive suppression (ES) on the association between PTSS and AUD among Israeli combat veterans. METHOD Participants were 189 Israel Defense Forces (IDF) male combat veterans (mean age = 30.03) who completed a set of validated self-report questionnaires assessing PTSS, AUD, EA, CR and ES. Moderation analyses were conducted using a four-step hierarchical regression analysis and an ordinary least squares regression analysis. RESULTS Analyses indicated that individuals with average or high levels of EA or ES exhibited significant positive association between PTSS and AUD, yet those with low levels of EA or ES exhibited no significant association between PTSS and AUD (b = 0.14,Confidence Interval (CI)[0.06, 0.22, SE = 0.04, t = 3.65, p = .000, 95%] for EA and b = 0.17, CI[0.07, 0.25, SE = 0.04, t = 3.69, p = .000, 95%] for ES). In addition, CR moderated the association between PTSS and AUD (b = 0.18, CI[0.07, 0.29, SE = 0.06, t = 3.24, p = .001, 95%]), so that the association between PTSS and AUD is positive and stronger for higher levels of CR. CONCLUSIONS Our findings imply that EA, ES and CR and emotion regulation may be major facilitators of the association between PTSS and AUD among combat veterans. These findings are discussed in the Israeli context as well as in light of a general psychological perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gadi Zerach
- Department of Psychology, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
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23
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Cooper DK, Erolin KS, Wieling E, Durtschi J, Aguilar E, Higuera MOD, Garcia-Huidobro D. Family Violence, PTSD, and Parent-Child Interactions: Dyadic Data Analysis with Mexican Families. CHILD & YOUTH CARE FORUM 2021; 49:915-940. [PMID: 33746465 DOI: 10.1007/s10566-020-09564-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family violence has been shown to have a dramatic impact on individual and family life in the United States and other countries. Numerous studies have assessed the influence that exposure to violence can have on family dynamics and parent-child relationships. However, less is known about the association between family violence and parent-child relationships with Mexican families. OBJECTIVE Guided by social interaction learning theory, the purpose of this study was to explore the role of exposure to family violence on PTSD and mother-child interaction patterns. METHODS Eighty-seven mother-child dyads from Mexico completed assessments for exposure to family violence, PTSD, and observational tasks were analyzed to assess prosocial parent-child interactions (i.e., positive communication and problem solving). We conducted an actor-partner independence model (APIM) to examine the association between exposure to family violence, PTSD and mother-child relationship dynamics. RESULTS As expected, higher exposure to family violence was linked to higher PTSD symptoms for mothers. Unexpectedly, higher maternal PTSD symptoms were associated with better communication during dyadic interaction tasks with their children. CONCLUSIONS The present study suggests that individuals from certain cultures (i.e., Mexico) may respond differently to experiencing family violence. The use of multiple measurement methods to assess the relational effects of trauma on family dynamics can advance the scientific understanding of trauma affected families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel K Cooper
- Methodology Center and Edna Bennett Pierce Prevention Research Center, the Pennsylvania State University
| | - Kara S Erolin
- Department of Family Therapy, Nova Southeastern University
| | - Elizabeth Wieling
- Marriage and Family Therapy, Department of Human Development and Family Science, University of Georgia
| | - Jared Durtschi
- Department of Family Studies and Human Services, Kansas State University
| | | | | | - Diego Garcia-Huidobro
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
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Hayes SC, Hofmann SG, Stanton CE. Process-based functional analysis can help behavioral science step up to novel challenges: COVID - 19 as an example. JOURNAL OF CONTEXTUAL BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE 2020; 18:128-145. [PMID: 32864323 PMCID: PMC7445588 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2020.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Historically speaking, the behavioral tradition advanced functional analysis as a method of applying existing principles to novel situations. In the more than half a century since that idea was advanced, functional analysis has either fallen into disuse, as in most of applied psychology, or has been used but modified to a point that is virtually inapplicable elsewhere, as in applied behavior analysis work with severe developmental disabilities. In this paper we argue that the current challenges with COVID-19 present an ideal time to reinvigorate functional analysis by combining it with the growing body of evidence on processes of change, organized under an extended evolutionary meta-model. This new form of process-based functional analysis takes advantage of the strengths of contextual behavioral science, while opening avenues of fruitful interaction with other wings of intervention and evolutionary science more generally. Using the psychological flexibility model as an example, we show how this approach solves the key problems of classical functional analysis and helps professionals deal with novel challenges such as those posed by COVID-19. Humanity is now facing an extraordinary and unexpected situation. Behavioral science needs to rise to that challenge in a way that provides both immediate practical value and greater assurance of long-term benefits for our understanding of human complexity more generally. Process-based functional analysis can be a vehicle to do just that.
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25
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Examining the correlates of psychological flexibility in romantic relationship and family dynamics: A meta-analysis. JOURNAL OF CONTEXTUAL BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2020.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Hajal NJ, Aralis HJ, Kiff CJ, Wasserman MM, Paley B, Milburn NG, Mogil C, Lester P. Parental Wartime Deployment and Socioemotional Adjustment in Early Childhood: The Critical Role of Military Parents' Perceived Threat During Deployment. J Trauma Stress 2020; 33:307-317. [PMID: 32233043 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children have unique developmental needs that render them vulnerable to challenges associated with parental military service. We used a sample of military-connected families with 3-6-year-old children (N = 104) to examine associations among children's socioemotional development and fathers' trauma-related deployment experiences, including perceived threat during deployment and exposure to combat and the aftermath of battle. Of these potential stressors, only paternal perceived threat during deployment was significantly associated with measures of mother-reported child adjustment. Fathers' perceived threat during deployment was associated with child behavior problems even after accounting for demographic variables and current paternal symptoms of posttraumatic stress, depression, and anxiety, β = .36, p = .007. The association between fathers' perceived threat during deployment and child behavior problems was mediated by several family processes related to emotion socialization, including father-reported sensitive parenting, indirect effect (IE) B = 0.106, 95% CI [0.009, 0.236]; parent-child dysfunctional interaction, IE B = 0.119, 95% CI [0.014, 0.252]; and mother-reported family emotional responsiveness, IE B = 0.119, 95% CI [0.011, 0.258]. Implications for future research on the intergenerational transmission of traumatic stress as well as prevention and intervention efforts for military-connected families with young children are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nastassia J Hajal
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Jane and Terry , Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Hilary J Aralis
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Jane and Terry , Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Cara J Kiff
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Jane and Terry , Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Melissa M Wasserman
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Jane and Terry , Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Blair Paley
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Jane and Terry , Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Norweeta G Milburn
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Jane and Terry , Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Catherine Mogil
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Jane and Terry , Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Patricia Lester
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Jane and Terry , Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
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The Physiological Regulation of Emotion During Social Interactions: Vagal Flexibility Moderates the Effects of a Military Parenting Intervention on Father Involvement in a Randomized Trial. PREVENTION SCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH 2020; 21:691-701. [PMID: 32303894 DOI: 10.1007/s11121-020-01122-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
To make prevention programs more effective and understand "what works for whom," evidence regarding what individual characteristics predict intervention responsiveness is needed. Previous studies have evaluated a military parent training program known as After Deployment Adaptive Parenting Tools/ADAPT, yet less is understood about the program's varying effects for fathers. We tested the physiological regulation of emotion during social interactions as a moderator predicting fathers' responsiveness in a randomized trial of ADAPT, in which emotion regulation was operationally measured through vagal flexibility (VF; dynamic changes in cardiac vagal tone). Families with a child aged between 4 and 13 years for whom physiological data were gathered (n = 145) were randomly assigned to ADAPT (14-week face-to-face group intervention) or a control group (services as usual). Fathers in these families were National Guard/Reserve members who had been deployed to war in Iraq and/or Afghanistan and recently returned. Prior to the intervention, cardiac data was collected in-home throughout a set of family interaction tasks and VF was operationalized as the changes in high frequency (HF) power of heart rate variability (HRV) from a reading task to a problem-solving task. Parenting behaviors were observed and coded based on theory-driven indicators pre-intervention and at 1-year follow-up. Results of structural equation modeling showed that VF significantly moderated fathers' intervention responsiveness, such that fathers with higher vs. lower VF exhibited more effective parenting at 1-year follow-up if they were randomized into ADAPT vs. the control group. This study is the first to demonstrate that parasympathetic vagal functioning may be a biomarker to predict response to a military parenting intervention to enhance parenting in combat deployed fathers. The implications for precision-based prevention are discussed.
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Presti G, McHugh L, Gloster A, Karekla M, Hayes SC. The Dynamics of Fear at the Time of Covid-19: A Contextual Behavioral Science Perspective. CLINICAL NEUROPSYCHIATRY 2020; 17:65-71. [PMID: 34908970 PMCID: PMC8629087 DOI: 10.36131/cn20200206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 is the relevant disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmitted via close contact between persons. On March 12th, 2020, WHO announced COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic, in view of its worldwide escalation. As the pandemic disease explodes, a parallel outbreak of fear and worry is also spreading. We react to fear symbolically, by arbitrarily relating it to other objects and events through derived verbal relations, so language may alter the way we experience events and consequently affects how we are functionally or dysfunctionally oriented to the world around us. In this paper we will outline the different human learning processes connected to fear responding, from the simplest type to the more complex cognitive ones, approaching them from the point of view of contextual behavioral science, a modern form of behavioral thinking. We will outline a model of intervention to foster psychological flexibility and more functional value-based actions. We will argue that in a pandemic and in the post-pandemic phase it could be a key for adapting to new and changed circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Louise McHugh
- School of Psychology, University College Dublin (Ireland)
| | - Andrew Gloster
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Basel (Switzerland)
| | - Maria Karekla
- Department of Psychology, University of Cyprus (Cyprus)
| | - Steven C. Hayes
- Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Reno (United States)
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29
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Zhang J, Palmer A, Zhang N, Gewirtz AH. Coercive Parenting Mediates the Relationship between Military Fathers' Emotion Regulation and children's Adjustment. JOURNAL OF ABNORMAL CHILD PSYCHOLOGY 2020; 48:633-645. [PMID: 32048117 DOI: 10.1007/s10802-020-00625-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Military parents' combat-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms have been linked to poor parenting and child maladjustment. Emotion regulation (ER) difficulties are thought to underlie PTSD symptoms, and research has begun to link parental ER to parenting behaviors. Little empirical evidence exists regarding whether fathers' ER is associated with child adjustment and what may be the underlying mechanism for this association. This study investigated whether deployed fathers' ER was associated with child emotional and behavioral problems, and whether the associations were mediated by coercive parenting behaviors. The sample consisted of 181 deployed fathers with non-deployed female partners and their 4- to 13-year-old children. Families were assessed at three time points over 2Â years. ER was measured using a latent construct of fathers' self-reports of their experiential avoidance, trait mindfulness, and difficulties in emotion regulation. Coercive parenting was observed via a series of home-based family interaction tasks. Child behaviors were assessed through parent- and child-report. Structural equation modeling revealed that fathers with poorer ER at baseline exhibited higher coercive parenting at 1-year follow-up, which was associated with more emotional and behavioral problems in children at 2-year follow-up. The indirect effect of coercive parenting was statistically significant. These findings suggest that fathers' difficulties in ER may impede their effective parenting behaviors, and children's adjustment problems might be amplified as a result of coercive interactions. Implications for the role of paternal ER on parenting interventions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingchen Zhang
- Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Alyssa Palmer
- Institute of Child Development, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Na Zhang
- REACH Institute, Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Abigail H Gewirtz
- Department of Family Social Science and Institute of Child Development & Institute of Translational Research in Children's Mental Health, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, 290 McNeal Hall, 1985 Buford Avenue, St. Paul, MN, 55108, USA.
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Cooper DK, Wieling E, Pfeiffer A. Bioecological Implications of Narrative Exposure Therapy in Low-Resource Settings: Individual, Family, Community, and Socio-Political Contexts. THE AUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF FAMILY THERAPY 2019; 40:353-367. [PMID: 34334934 PMCID: PMC8323547 DOI: 10.1002/anzf.1392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Traumatic stress can have detrimental effects on individuals, families, and communities. Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) is an evidence-based intervention for decreasing individuals' posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and has been tested in some of the most challenging contexts, such as in post-conflict refugee camps. Although the focus of NET is on reducing individual PTSD symptoms, the impact of NET can be seen beyond the individual level. The purpose of this manuscript was to examine some of the ecological implications of using NET with trauma-affected populations in low-resource settings. We highlight select implications of NET that extend beyond the individual to systemic effects at the family, community, and sociopolitical levels using several case examples. Finally, we outline limitations and future directions for improving the delivery of NET in settings with limited resources.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elizabeth Wieling
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, University of Georgia
| | - Anett Pfeiffer
- vivo Outpatient Clinic for Survivors of Trauma and Torture in Uganda
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Effects of the After Deployment: Adaptive Parenting Tools (ADAPT) intervention on fathers and their children: A moderated mediation model. Dev Psychopathol 2019; 31:1837-1849. [DOI: 10.1017/s0954579419001238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
AbstractDeployment to war is associated with disruptions to emotion regulation and parenting. Using data from a randomized controlled trial, we examined whether fathers with poorer emotion regulation would differentially benefit from the After Deployment, Adaptive Parenting Tools program, a 14-session group-based parenting intervention. Prior analyses of the intervention demonstrated benefits to observed couple parenting and children's adjustment, but not to fathers’ observed parenting. In this study we examined whether intervention effects on fathers’ observed distress avoidance were moderated by baseline emotion regulation, and whether reduced distress avoidance was associated with improved observed parenting and reduced children's internalizing symptoms. A subset of the full randomized controlled trial sample (181 families with a father who had returned from deployment to war in Iraq or Afghanistan, a nondeployed mother, and a target child aged 4–13) completed measures at baseline, 12-months, and 24-months postbaseline. Results indicated that fathers high in baseline emotion regulation difficulties assigned to the intervention group showed reductions in observed distress avoidance at 12 months compared to controls, which were subsequently associated with improvements in observed parenting practices and reductions in children's internalizing symptoms at 24 months. The results suggest a role for personalizing parenting programs for fathers high in emotion dysregulation.
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32
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Zhang N, Zhang J, Gewirtz AH, Piehler TF. Improving parental emotion socialization in military families: Results of a randomized controlled trial. JOURNAL OF FAMILY PSYCHOLOGY : JFP : JOURNAL OF THE DIVISION OF FAMILY PSYCHOLOGY OF THE AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION (DIVISION 43) 2018; 32:1046-1056. [PMID: 30102051 PMCID: PMC6392434 DOI: 10.1037/fam0000461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Prior research indicates that children of deployed parents are at risk for emotional problems, suggesting the utility of preventive efforts for military families. Effective parental socialization of children's emotions is protective for children's development, and parental experiential avoidance may impede parental emotion socialization, yet intervention studies in this area are lacking. This study examined the impact of a parenting program, After Deployment Adaptive Parenting Tools (ADAPT), on parental emotion socialization postintervention (6 months postbaseline) and whether intervention effects were moderated by parental experiential avoidance. The sample included 336 families (294 fathers and 313 mothers) with at least 1 deployed parent and a focal child aged 4-12. Families were randomized into either ADAPT (a 14-week group-based intervention) or control group. Self-reported data on parental emotion socialization and experiential avoidance were analyzed using structural equation modeling. Results showed that mothers who were assigned to the intervention had significant improved supportive emotion socialization and reduced nonsupportive emotion socialization at postintervention compared with controls. Mothers with higher levels of experiential avoidance assigned to the intervention group had higher levels of supportive emotion socialization at postintervention. No significant intervention effects were found in fathers. This study provides support for the effects of the ADAPT program on maternal emotion socialization at 6-month postbaseline, and the role of experiential avoidance as a moderator. We discuss findings in relation to the different parental roles that mothers and fathers play in postdeployed families, as well as implications for personalized intervention programming. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Zhang
- Department of Family Social Science
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33
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Monn AR, Zhang N, Gewirtz AH. Deficits in Inhibitory Control May Place Service Members at Risk for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Negative Parenting Behavior Following Deployment-Related Trauma. J Trauma Stress 2018; 31:866-875. [PMID: 30554423 PMCID: PMC6338325 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2017] [Revised: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the mediating role of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in the association between deployment-related trauma exposure and parenting behaviors in reserve-component military service members and whether this association was contingent upon parent inhibitory control (IC). Participants were 181 postdeployed fathers and their children. Fathers completed a neurospychological test of IC and self-report measures of trauma exposure and PTSD symptoms. Measures of parenting behaviors (positive engagement and reactivity coercion) were obtained from direct observation of father-child interaction. Results demonstrated that (a) fathers' PTSD symptoms indirectly mediated the effect of trauma exposure on both measures of parenting (i.e., negative indirect effect for positive engagement, point estimate = -.0045, 95% CI [-.0107, -.0003], and positive indirect effect for reactivity coercion, point estimate = .0061, 95% CI [.0007, .0146]); (b) fathers' IC skills moderated the association between trauma exposure and PTSD, β = .14, p = .043, such that the association was positive and significant for fathers with high and medium IC but nonsignificant for fathers with low IC; and (c) the indirect effect of trauma exposure on both parenting measures through PTSD was dependent upon IC, point estimate = .0341, 95% CI [.0005, .0687]. These findings indicate that fathers with low IC skills tended to have higher rates of PTSD symptoms and related negative parenting behaviors, even for individuals with relatively low degrees of deployment-related trauma exposure. Results highlight the importance of IC as a potential moderating factor in the association between trauma exposure, PTSD, and parenting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy R. Monn
- Institute of Child Development, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Na Zhang
- Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA
| | - Abigail H. Gewirtz
- Institute of Child Development, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA,Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA
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34
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Torrisi R, Arnautovic E, Pointet Perizzolo VC, Vital M, Manini A, Suardi F, Gex-Fabry M, Rusconi Serpa S, Schechter DS. Developmental delay in communication among toddlers and its relationship to caregiving behavior among violence-exposed, posttraumatically stressed mothers. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2018; 82:67-78. [PMID: 29754762 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2018.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2017] [Revised: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/07/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to understand if maternal interpersonal violence-related posttraumatic stress disorder (IPV-PTSD) is associated with delayed language development among very young children ("toddlers"). METHODS Data were collected from 61 mothers and toddlers (ages 12-42 months, mean age = 25.6 months SD = 8.70). Child expressive and receptive language development was assessed by the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) communication subscale (ASQCS) that measures language acquisition. Observed maternal caregiving behavior was coded from videos of 10-min free-play interactions via the CARE-Index. Correlations, Mann-Whitney tests, and multiple linear regression were performed. RESULTS There was no significant association between maternal IPV-PTSD severity and the ASQCS. Maternal IPV-PTSD severity was associated with continuous maternal behavior variables (i.e. sensitive and controlling behavior on the CARE-Index) across the entire sample and regardless of child gender. Maternal sensitivity was positively and significantly associated with the ASQCS. Controlling behavior was negatively and significantly associated with the ASQCS. CONCLUSIONS Results are consistent with the literature that while maternal IPV-PTSD severity is not associated with child language delays, the quality of maternal interactive behavior is associated both with child language development and with maternal IPV-PTSD severity. Further study is needed to understand if the level of child language development contributes to intergenerational risk or resilience for relational violence and/or victimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Torrisi
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Service, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - E Arnautovic
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Service, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - V C Pointet Perizzolo
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Service, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - M Vital
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Service, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - A Manini
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Service, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - F Suardi
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Service, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - M Gex-Fabry
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Geneva Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - S Rusconi Serpa
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Service, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - D S Schechter
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Geneva Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland; Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, New York Langone University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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35
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Piehler TF, Ausherbauer K, Gewirtz A, Gliske K. Improving Child Peer Adjustment in Military Families through Parent Training: The Mediational Role of Parental Locus of Control. THE JOURNAL OF EARLY ADOLESCENCE 2018; 38:1322-1343. [PMID: 30555201 PMCID: PMC6289184 DOI: 10.1177/0272431616678990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The current study investigated the mechanisms through which a parenting intervention for military families fosters positive peer adjustment in children. A sample of 336 families with a history of parental deployment enrolled in a randomized controlled trial of the After Deployment Adaptive Parenting Tools (ADAPT) preventive intervention. ADAPT is a 14-week preventive intervention designed to strengthen parenting in military families. The intervention was associated with improvements in mother's and father's parental locus of control (i.e., a more internal locus of control) at a 6-month follow-up assessment while controlling for baseline levels. Mothers' parental locus of control was positively associated with improvements in children's peer adjustment 12 months following the intervention while controlling for baseline peer adjustment. A significant indirect effect revealed that participation in ADAPT resulted in improved 12-month peer adjustment by improving mothers' parental locus of control. Implications for supporting youth resilience to stressors associated with deployment are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy F. Piehler
- Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota
- Institute for Translational Research in Children’s Mental Health, University of Minnesota
| | | | - Abigail Gewirtz
- Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota
- Institute for Translational Research in Children’s Mental Health, University of Minnesota
- Institute of Child Development, University of Minnesota
| | - Kate Gliske
- Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota
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36
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Julian MM, Muzik M, Kees M, Valenstein M, Dexter C, Rosenblum KL. Intervention effects on reflectivity explain change in positive parenting in military families with young children. JOURNAL OF FAMILY PSYCHOLOGY : JFP : JOURNAL OF THE DIVISION OF FAMILY PSYCHOLOGY OF THE AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION (DIVISION 43) 2018; 32:804-815. [PMID: 29878806 PMCID: PMC6126948 DOI: 10.1037/fam0000431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Military families with young children often experience stress related to the unique circumstances of military families (e.g., deployment), and there is a need for interventions that are specifically tailored to military families with young children. The Strong Military Families (SMF) intervention responds to this need, and consists of two versions: A Multifamily Group (N = 34), and a Homebased psychoeducational written material program (N = 42; treated as the comparison group in this report). The Multifamily Group utilized an attachment-based parenting education curriculum and in vivo support of separations and reunions, encouraged peer support among parents, and connected families to additional services. In the present nonrandomized trial, we examine intervention effects on observed parenting behavior and affect, and test whether changes in parenting reflectivity account for intervention-related changes in observed parenting. Observed parenting behavior and affect were coded from the Caregiver-Child Structured Interaction Procedure (Crowell & Fleischmann, 1993), and parenting reflectivity was coded from the Working Model of the Child Interview (Zeanah & Benoit, 1995). Results suggest that relative to Homebased participants, Multifamily Group participants showed pre- and post- improvements in aspects of positive parenting (Emotional Responsivity, Positive Affect), but no decreases in negative parenting. The efficacy of the SMF Multifamily Group intervention does not appear to depend on parent risk level or preintervention parent behavior and affect. Further, a mediation model demonstrated that the intervention effects on parents' observed positive affect in an interaction task with their child were partially accounted for by intervention-related changes in their parenting reflectivity. (PsycINFO Database Record
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan M. Julian
- University of Michigan Center for Human Growth & Development
| | - Maria Muzik
- University of Michigan Center for Human Growth & Development
- University of Michigan Department of Psychiatry
| | | | | | - Casey Dexter
- Berry College, School of Education and Human Sciences
| | - Katherine L. Rosenblum
- University of Michigan Center for Human Growth & Development
- University of Michigan Department of Psychiatry
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37
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Gewirtz AH. A Call for Theoretically Informed and Empirically Validated Military Family Interventions. JOURNAL OF FAMILY THEORY & REVIEW 2018; 10:587-601. [PMID: 30416241 PMCID: PMC6219466 DOI: 10.1111/jftr.12278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Although multiple evidence-based family interventions exist, less than a handful have been developed or rigorously tested specifically for military families. Indeed, few interventions available to military families are theory based or empirically validated; most have good face validity but little data on efficacy or effectiveness. This article argues for an emphasis on the rigorous evaluation, via pragmatic randomized controlled trials, of theory-based family interventions to strengthen and support military families. Data are provided from a theory-based, empirically validated parenting program for families (After Deployment, Adaptive Parenting Tools, or ADAPT) to demonstrate the potential for randomized controlled trials to yield rich data about family functioning beyond program outcomes. Opportunities to generate theoretically informed, evidence-based family interventions for military families will contribute not only to testing theories about military families but also to advancing well-being for the next generation of service members and their families.
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Abstract
The current study examines a military family stress model, evaluating associations between deployment-related stressors (i.e., deployment length/number, posttraumatic stress disorder [PTSD] symptoms) and parent, child, parenting, and dyadic adjustment among families in which a parent had previously deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan in the recent conflicts. Married families (NÂ =Â 293) with at least one child between the ages of 4 and 12 were recruited from a Midwestern state. Service members were from the Reserve Component (National Guard or Reserves); fathers (NÂ =Â 253) and/or mothers had deployed (NÂ =Â 45) to the recent conflicts in the Middle East. Multiple-method (observations of parenting and couple interactions; questionnaires) and multiple informant measures were gathered online and in the homes of participants, from parents, children, and teachers. Findings demonstrated associations between mothers' and fathers' PTSD symptoms and a latent variable of child adjustment comprising teacher, parent, and child report. Mothers' but not fathers' PTSD symptoms were also associated with dyadic adjustment and parenting practices; parenting practices were in turn associated with child adjustment. The results are discussed in terms of their implications for military family stress research and interventions to support and strengthen parents and families after deployment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail H Gewirtz
- Department of Family Social Science & Institute of Child Development, & Institute for Translational Research in Children's Mental Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - David S DeGarmo
- Department of Educational Methodology, Policy, and Leadership, Prevention Science Institute, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR
| | - Osnat Zamir
- Paul Baerwald School of Social Work and Social Welfare, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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Zhang N, Rudi JH, Zamir O, Gewirtz AH. Parent Engagement in Online Mindfulness Exercises Within a Parent Training Program for Post-Deployed Military Families. Mindfulness (N Y) 2018; 9:725-736. [PMID: 29963214 PMCID: PMC6020143 DOI: 10.1007/s12671-017-0810-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Mindfulness has drawn increased attention in prevention programs targeting parents. Commonly, mindfulness-based programs are provided to reduce parental stress and improve child outcomes. Less often, researchers incorporate a mindfulness-informed approach, integrating a low dose of mindfulness exercises into an existing evidence-based parent training model. Little is known about participant engagement with mindfulness exercises in such programs. This non-experimental study focuses on families who are at risk for impaired parenting due to the unique stressor of a parent's deployment to war. The goal is to examine military parents' online engagement in mindfulness exercises and associations between engagement and dispositional mindfulness within a web-enhanced parent training program. Online tracking records and self-reported data were obtained from 370 military parents (207 families) who were assigned to the program; at 6-month follow-up, 68.6% of these parents were retained (at least one parent reported from 75.4% of families). Results showed that nearly half (44.6%) of the parents engaged with the exercises. Participants who attended face-to-face group sessions (i.e., attendees) engaged throughout the intervention period whereas participants who never attended group sessions (i.e., non-attendees) mostly engaged during the first month in the program. Attendees and mothers engaged more than non-attendees and fathers. While engaged parents self-reported increased dispositional mindfulness at 6-month follow-up compared to baseline, only mothers' engagement accounted for a significant proportion of the variance (3%) in dispositional mindfulness at 6-month follow-up, after controlling for covariates. Implications for incorporating online mindfulness exercises into parent training are discussed in the context of programming for military families.
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40
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Bowes MA, Ferreira N, Henderson M. The influence of psychosocial factors in veteran adjustment to civilian life. Clin Psychol Psychother 2018; 25:583-600. [PMID: 29575290 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2017] [Revised: 01/14/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
AIM Although most veterans have a successful transition to civilian life when they leave the military, some struggle to cope and adjust to the demands and challenges of civilian life. This study explores how a variety of psychosocial factors influence veteran adjustment to civilian life in Scotland, UK, and which of these factors predict a poor adjustment. METHODS One hundred and fifty-four veterans across Scotland completed a set of questionnaires that measured veteran adjustment difficulty, quality of life, mental health, stigma, self-stigma, attitude towards help-seeking, likelihood of help-seeking, experiential avoidance, reappraisal and suppression. RESULTS Veteran adjustment difficulty and quality of life were significantly correlated to a number of psychosocial factors. Mental health, experiential avoidance and cognitive reappraisal were found to be predictors of veteran adjustment difficulty, and experiential avoidance and cognitive reappraisal partially mediated the relationship between mental health and veteran adjustment, with experiential avoidance being the stronger mediator. DISCUSSION Our findings suggest that early assessment of experiential avoidance and cognitive reappraisal and the provision of relevant emotion regulation skills training could potentially reduce the veteran's need for more complex (and costly) psychological interventions in the future. Implications for veterans, as well as the services and professionals involved with veteran transition and health care are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nuno Ferreira
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Nicosia, Nicosia, Cyprus
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Chesmore AA, Piehler TF, Gewirtz AH. PTSD as a moderator of a parenting intervention for military families. JOURNAL OF FAMILY PSYCHOLOGY : JFP : JOURNAL OF THE DIVISION OF FAMILY PSYCHOLOGY OF THE AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION (DIVISION 43) 2018; 32:123-133. [PMID: 29283597 PMCID: PMC5854523 DOI: 10.1037/fam0000366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The stress of multiple deployments and exposure to combat places service members at risk for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which may detrimentally affect parenting. Evidence-based parenting programs have been successful in promoting adaptive parenting practices among families exposed to stress. However, the effects of preventive interventions on parenting may vary by military parent's PTSD. The current study includes families who participated in a randomized controlled trial of a parenting intervention for military families known as After Deployment, Adaptive Parenting Tools (ADAPT). Families were randomized to either a 14-week, group-based parenting program or a comparison group. Participants included families with 4- to 12-year-old children in which at least 1 parent deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan (N = 336; 945 individuals). Structural equation modeling was used to examine parent self-reported PTSD as a potential moderator of the relationship between intent-to-treat status and effective parenting practices 12 months postbaseline while accounting for baseline effective parenting, length and number of deployments, and family demographics. Father PTSD was a significant moderator, such that the intervention was less effective for fathers who met clinical levels of PTSD. No significant moderation effects were found among mothers. These findings may have important implications for the development of future evidence-based parenting programs. (PsycINFO Database Record
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley A Chesmore
- Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota Twin Cities
| | - Timothy F Piehler
- Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota Twin Cities
| | - Abigail H Gewirtz
- Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota Twin Cities
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Kroska EB, Miller ML, Roche AI, Kroska SK, O'Hara MW. Effects of traumatic experiences on obsessive-compulsive and internalizing symptoms: The role of avoidance and mindfulness. J Affect Disord 2018; 225:326-336. [PMID: 28843915 PMCID: PMC5654743 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2017.08.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2017] [Revised: 06/21/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trauma exposure is associated with adverse psychological outcomes including anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive (OC) symptoms. Adolescence is increasingly recognized as a period of vulnerability for the onset of these types of psychological symptoms. The current study explored the mediating roles of experiential avoidance and mindfulness processes in the association between retrospective reports of childhood trauma and current internalizing and OC symptoms in adolescents. METHOD A group of at-risk adolescents (N = 51) and a group of college students (N = 400) reported on childhood trauma, experiential avoidance, mindfulness, anxiety, depressive, and OC symptoms. Mediation analyses were performed to examine the mechanistic roles of avoidance and mindfulness in the association between trauma and internalizing and OC-specific symptoms. RESULTS In the group of at-risk adolescents, experiential avoidance and mindfulness both significantly mediated the association between childhood trauma and OC symptoms. In the college student sample, experiential avoidance mediated the association between trauma and OC symptoms. Experiential avoidance, as well as the observe, act with awareness, and nonjudgmental facets of mindfulness all significantly mediated the association between trauma and internalizing symptoms. LIMITATIONS The group of at-risk adolescents was small, and the college student group was demographically homogeneous. All data was self-report and cross-sectional. CONCLUSION The current study demonstrated that experiential avoidance and mindfulness processes may be the mechanisms through which the association between trauma and obsessive-compulsive and trauma and internalizing symptoms exist in adolescents. These findings provide potential targets for clinical intervention to improve outcomes for adolescents who have experienced trauma.
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Lester P, Rauch P, Loucks L, Sornborger J, Ohye B, Karnik NS. Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Military-Connected Families: The Relevance of a Family-Centered Approach. FOCUS (AMERICAN PSYCHIATRIC PUBLISHING) 2017; 15:420-428. [PMID: 31975873 PMCID: PMC6519530 DOI: 10.1176/appi.focus.20170027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Since the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, military service in the United States has been linked to a range of behavioral health and physical injuries in a significant number of the almost three million service members who have returned from wartime deployment. These injuries have occurred in the larger context of wartime military service, which is characterized by an array of stressors that have been associated with increased risk for behavioral health problems not only for service members but also for their family members. For the past 15 years, military-connected (defined as active-duty, reserve component, and veteran) family members have shared their own experiences of military service, including multiple deployments in the context of danger, high operational stress within their communities, and living with the physical and behavioral health injuries and ongoing care needs of a loved one. This article provides an overview of the evolving research on the specific impact of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other war zone-related behavioral health problems among families in the context of contemporary warfare, as well as research on the impact of family adjustment on veteran recovery and care. We propose an empirically supported, family-centered framework to inform a continuum of prevention and care for veterans with PTSD and their families. Gaps in the current continuum of behavioral health services for veterans with PTSD are identified, as well as efforts underway to develop trauma-informed, family-centered screening, prevention, and treatment approaches. Future research recommendations are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Lester
- Dr. Lester is with the Nathanson Family Resilience Center, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Dr. Rauch is with the Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston. Dr. Loucks is with the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta. Dr. Sornborger is with Operation Mend, UCLA Health. Dr. Ohye is with the Massachusetts General Hospital Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston. Dr. Karnik is with the Department of Psychiatry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago
| | - Paula Rauch
- Dr. Lester is with the Nathanson Family Resilience Center, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Dr. Rauch is with the Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston. Dr. Loucks is with the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta. Dr. Sornborger is with Operation Mend, UCLA Health. Dr. Ohye is with the Massachusetts General Hospital Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston. Dr. Karnik is with the Department of Psychiatry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago
| | - Laura Loucks
- Dr. Lester is with the Nathanson Family Resilience Center, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Dr. Rauch is with the Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston. Dr. Loucks is with the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta. Dr. Sornborger is with Operation Mend, UCLA Health. Dr. Ohye is with the Massachusetts General Hospital Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston. Dr. Karnik is with the Department of Psychiatry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago
| | - Jo Sornborger
- Dr. Lester is with the Nathanson Family Resilience Center, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Dr. Rauch is with the Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston. Dr. Loucks is with the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta. Dr. Sornborger is with Operation Mend, UCLA Health. Dr. Ohye is with the Massachusetts General Hospital Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston. Dr. Karnik is with the Department of Psychiatry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago
| | - Bonnie Ohye
- Dr. Lester is with the Nathanson Family Resilience Center, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Dr. Rauch is with the Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston. Dr. Loucks is with the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta. Dr. Sornborger is with Operation Mend, UCLA Health. Dr. Ohye is with the Massachusetts General Hospital Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston. Dr. Karnik is with the Department of Psychiatry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago
| | - Niranjin S Karnik
- Dr. Lester is with the Nathanson Family Resilience Center, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Dr. Rauch is with the Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston. Dr. Loucks is with the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta. Dr. Sornborger is with Operation Mend, UCLA Health. Dr. Ohye is with the Massachusetts General Hospital Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston. Dr. Karnik is with the Department of Psychiatry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago
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Creech SK, Misca G. Parenting with PTSD: A Review of Research on the Influence of PTSD on Parent-Child Functioning in Military and Veteran Families. Front Psychol 2017; 8:1101. [PMID: 28713306 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2017.01101/full] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2017] [Accepted: 06/13/2017] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is strongly associated with exposure to war related trauma in military and veteran populations. In growing recognition that PTSD may influence and be influenced by social support and family systems, research has begun to explore the effects that war related trauma and the ensuing PTSD may have on varied aspects of close relationship and family functioning. Far less research, however, has examined the influence of war-related PTSD on parent-child functioning in this population. This paper provides a timely review of emergent literature to examine the impacts that PTSD may have on parenting behaviors and children's outcomes with a focus on studies of military and veterans of international conflicts since post-9/11. The review sheds light on the pathways through which PTSD may impact parent-child relationships, and proposes the cognitive-behavioral interpersonal theory of PTSD as a theoretical formulation and extends this to parenting/children. The review identifies the strengths and limitations in the extant research and proposes directions for future research and methodological practice to better capture the complex interplay of PTSD and parenting in military and veteran families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzannah K Creech
- Central Texas Veterans Health Care System - Veterans Health Administration, VISN 17 Center of Excellence for Research on Returning War Veterans, WacoTX, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Dell Medical School of the University of Texas at Austin, AustinTX, United States
| | - Gabriela Misca
- Institute of Health and Society, University of WorcesterWorcester, United Kingdom
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Creech SK, Misca G. Parenting with PTSD: A Review of Research on the Influence of PTSD on Parent-Child Functioning in Military and Veteran Families. Front Psychol 2017; 8:1101. [PMID: 28713306 PMCID: PMC5491843 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2017.01101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2017] [Accepted: 06/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is strongly associated with exposure to war related trauma in military and veteran populations. In growing recognition that PTSD may influence and be influenced by social support and family systems, research has begun to explore the effects that war related trauma and the ensuing PTSD may have on varied aspects of close relationship and family functioning. Far less research, however, has examined the influence of war-related PTSD on parent-child functioning in this population. This paper provides a timely review of emergent literature to examine the impacts that PTSD may have on parenting behaviors and children’s outcomes with a focus on studies of military and veterans of international conflicts since post-9/11. The review sheds light on the pathways through which PTSD may impact parent-child relationships, and proposes the cognitive-behavioral interpersonal theory of PTSD as a theoretical formulation and extends this to parenting/children. The review identifies the strengths and limitations in the extant research and proposes directions for future research and methodological practice to better capture the complex interplay of PTSD and parenting in military and veteran families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzannah K Creech
- Central Texas Veterans Health Care System - Veterans Health Administration, VISN 17 Center of Excellence for Research on Returning War Veterans, WacoTX, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, Dell Medical School of the University of Texas at Austin, AustinTX, United States
| | - Gabriela Misca
- Institute of Health and Society, University of WorcesterWorcester, United Kingdom
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Snyder J, Gewirtz A, Schrepferman L, Gird SR, Quattlebaum J, Pauldine MR, Elish K, Zamir O, Hayes C. Parent-child relationship quality and family transmission of parent posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms and child externalizing and internalizing symptoms following fathers' exposure to combat trauma. Dev Psychopathol 2016; 28:947-969. [PMID: 27739388 PMCID: PMC5113136 DOI: 10.1017/s095457941600064x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Transactional cascades among child internalizing and externalizing symptoms, and fathers' and mothers' posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms were examined in a sample of families with a male parent who had been deployed to recent military conflicts in the Middle East. The role of parents' positive engagement and coercive interaction with their child, and family members' emotion regulation were tested as processes linking cascades of parent and child symptoms. A subsample of 183 families with deployed fathers and nondeployed mothers and their 4- to 13-year-old children who participated in a randomized control trial intervention (After Deployment: Adaptive Parenting Tools) were assessed at baseline prior to intervention, and at 12 and 24 months after baseline, using parent reports of their own and their child's symptoms. Parents' observed behavior during interaction with their children was coded using a multimethod approach at each assessment point. Reciprocal cascades among fathers' and mothers' PTSD symptoms, and child internalizing and externalizing symptoms, were observed. Fathers' and mothers' positive engagement during parent-child interaction linked their PTSD symptoms and their child's internalizing symptoms. Fathers' and mothers' coercive behavior toward their child linked their PTSD symptoms and their child's externalizing symptoms. Each family member's capacity for emotion regulation was associated with his or her adjustment problems at baseline. Implications for intervention, and for research using longitudinal models and a family-systems perspective of co-occurrence and cascades of symptoms across family members are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Snyder
- Department of Psychology, Wichita State University
| | - Abigail Gewirtz
- Department of Family Social Sciences, University of Minnesota
| | | | | | | | | | - Katie Elish
- Department of Psychology, Wichita State University
| | - Osnat Zamir
- Department of Family Social Sciences, University of Minnesota
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Forgatch MS, Kjøbli J. Parent Management Training-Oregon Model: Adapting Intervention with Rigorous Research. FAMILY PROCESS 2016; 55:500-13. [PMID: 27283222 DOI: 10.1111/famp.12224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Parent Management Training-Oregon Model (PMTO(®) ) is a set of theory-based parenting programs with status as evidence-based treatments. PMTO has been rigorously tested in efficacy and effectiveness trials in different contexts, cultures, and formats. Parents, the presumed agents of change, learn core parenting practices, specifically skill encouragement, limit setting, monitoring/supervision, interpersonal problem solving, and positive involvement. The intervention effectively prevents and ameliorates children's behavior problems by replacing coercive interactions with positive parenting practices. Delivery format includes sessions with individual families in agencies or families' homes, parent groups, and web-based and telehealth communication. Mediational models have tested parenting practices as mechanisms of change for children's behavior and found support for the theory underlying PMTO programs. Moderating effects include children's age, maternal depression, and social disadvantage. The Norwegian PMTO implementation is presented as an example of how PMTO has been tailored to reach diverse populations as delivered by multiple systems of care throughout the nation. An implementation and research center in Oslo provides infrastructure and promotes collaboration between practitioners and researchers to conduct rigorous intervention research. Although evidence-based and tested within a wide array of contexts and populations, PMTO must continue to adapt to an ever-changing world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion S Forgatch
- Implementation Sciences International, Inc., Eugene, OR.
- Oregon Social Learning Center, Eugene, OR.
| | - John Kjøbli
- The Norwegian Center for Child Behavioral Development, Oslo, Norway
- Regional Centre for Child and Youth Mental Health and Child Welfare, Uni Research Health, Bergen, Norway
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48
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Gewirtz AH, DeGarmo DS, Zamir O. Effects of a Military Parenting Program on Parental Distress and Suicidal Ideation: After Deployment Adaptive Parenting Tools. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2016; 46 Suppl 1:S23-31. [PMID: 27094107 PMCID: PMC5113712 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.12255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Few studies have examined whether parenting prevention programs might mitigate risk for suicidality in parents, yet parent suicidality is a strong risk factor for offspring suicidality. We report results from a randomized controlled trial of a parenting program for deployed National Guard and Reserve families with a school-aged child. Intent-to-treat analyses showed that random assignment to the parenting program (ADAPT) was associated with improved parenting locus of control (LOC). Improved parenting LOC was concurrently associated with strengthened emotion regulation which predicted reductions in psychological distress and suicidal ideation at 12 months postbaseline. Results are discussed in the context of ongoing efforts to reduce suicide rates in military populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail H. Gewirtz
- Department of Family Social Science & Institute of Child Development, & Institute for Translational Research in Children’s Mental Health, University of Minnesota
| | - David S. DeGarmo
- Prevention Science Institute, Department of Educational Methodology, Policy, and Leadership, University of Oregon
| | - Osnat Zamir
- Institute for Translational Research in Children’s Mental Health, University of Minnesota
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Marsac ML, Kassam-Adams N. A novel adaptation of a parent-child observational assessment tool for appraisals and coping in children exposed to acute trauma. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2016; 7:31879. [PMID: 27652595 PMCID: PMC5031795 DOI: 10.3402/ejpt.v7.31879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2016] [Revised: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Millions of children worldwide are exposed to acute potentially traumatic events (PTEs) annually. Many children and their families experience significant emotional distress and/or functional impairment following PTEs. While current research has begun to highlight a role for early appraisals and coping in promoting or preventing full recovery from PTEs, the exact nature of the relationships among appraisals, coping, and traumatic stress reactions as well as how appraisals and coping behaviors are influenced by the child's environment (e.g., parents) remains unclear; assessment tools that reach beyond self-report are needed to improve this understanding. OBJECTIVE The objective of the current study is to describe the newly created Trauma Ambiguous Situations Tool (TAST; i.e., an observational child-parent interview and discussion task that allows assessment of appraisals, coping, and parent-child processes) and to report on initial feasibility and validation of TAST implemented with child-parent dyads in which children were exposed to a PTE. METHOD As part of a larger study on the role of biopsychosocial factors in posttraumatic stress reactions, children (aged 8-13) and parents (n=25 child-parent dyads) completed the TAST during the child's hospitalization for injury. RESULTS Children and parents engaged well with the TAST. The time to administer the TAST was feasible, even in a peri-trauma context. The TAST solicited a wide array of appraisals (threat and neutral) and coping solutions (proactive and avoidant). Forced-choice and open-ended appraisal assessments provided unique information. The parent-child discussion portion of the TAST allowed for direct observation of parent-child processes and demonstrated parental influence on children's appraisals and coping solutions. CONCLUSIONS The TAST is a promising new research tool, which may help to explicate how parents influence their child's developing appraisals and coping solutions following a PTE. More research should examine the relationships of appraisals, coping, and parent-child processes assessed by the TAST with traumatic stress outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan L Marsac
- The Center for Injury Research and Prevention, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Kentucky Children's Hospital, Lexington, KY, USA.,College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA;
| | - Nancy Kassam-Adams
- The Center for Injury Research and Prevention, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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