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Grey I, Thomas J, Mansour Jamaleddine J, Yaktine T, Cheung Chung M. Religious coping and levels of posttraumatic stress disorder symptomatology after the Beirut explosion. Psychol Trauma 2024; 16:39-48. [PMID: 37561436 DOI: 10.1037/tra0001529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Religious coping has implications for the development of psychopathology in the aftermath of traumatic events. This study explored the relationship between religious coping (positive and negative) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptomology among survivors of a large industrial explosion that devastated parts of Beirut in August of 2020. METHOD Three months after the disaster, 996 residents of Beirut and Lebanon completed validated measures of religious coping (RCOPE) and PTSD symptomatology (Impact of Events Scale-Revised) in either English or Arabic. The majority of participants were young adults aged between 18 and 25 years. RESULTS Results indicated that higher levels of negative religious coping were a significant predictor of higher levels of PTSD symptomatology and were associated with a two-fold risk of meeting the criteria for probable PTSD. Other significant predictors included female gender, being a resident of Beirut at the time of the explosion, having personally sustained an injury, or knowing a person injured in the explosion. Effects sizes ranged from .34 to .68. CONCLUSIONS Higher scores on measures of negative religious coping were associated with higher levels of PTSD symptomatology. However, negative religious coping may be better construed as a set of religious-based appraisals of event causality and may represent a form of peritraumatic appraisal in the wake of traumatic events. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Grey
- Department of Cognitive Science, United Arab Emirates University
| | - Justin Thomas
- Department of Psychology, Psychology Program, Zayed University
| | | | - Toufic Yaktine
- Department of Education and Social Sciences, Psychology Program, Lebanese American University
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Wang N, Chung MC, Wang Y, Liu F. The impact of adolescent profiles of posttraumatic stress, emotion regulation, and disorganized attachment on posttraumatic growth and psychiatric symptoms: Academic stress and egocentrism as covariates. Psychol Trauma 2023:2024-29466-001. [PMID: 38032632 DOI: 10.1037/tra0001628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to examine the profile patterns of co-occurring posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), cognitive emotion regulation (CER), and disorganized attachment in traumatized adolescents. It also aimed to examine whether these adolescents with different profiles would differ in posttraumatic growth (PTG) and comorbid psychiatric symptoms after controlling for academic stress and egocentrism. METHOD Nine hundred and forty-nine (N = 949) adolescents were recruited from two secondary schools in China. They completed measures on PTSD, comorbid psychiatric symptoms, PTG, CER, disorganized attachment, and covariates of egocentrism and academic stress. RESULTS Latent profile analysis identified a four-class model as the optimal solution: low trauma group (Class 1), adaptive copers (Class 2), moderate trauma group (Class 3), and high trauma group (Class 4). After controlling for demographics and levels of egocentrism and academic stress, Class 4 had more severe comorbid psychiatric symptoms than the other three classes. Class 3 had higher levels of comorbid psychiatric symptoms than Class 2 and Class 1, while these latter two were comparable in comorbid psychiatric symptoms. Conversely, Class 4 students had lower levels of PTG than individuals in the other three classes. Class 3 had similar levels of PTG to Class 1, and these two classes reported lower levels of PTG than Class 2. CONCLUSIONS Chinese adolescents may experience both negative and positive changes after stressful events. The extent of these psychological outcomes could vary depending on the adolescents' previous trauma experiences, emotion regulation, and attachment qualities. Implications for clinical practice were discussed. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Wang
- School of Foreign Languages, Huazhong University of Science and Technology
| | | | - Yabing Wang
- Center for Linguistics and Applied Linguistics, Guangdong University of Foreign Studies
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Giangrasso B, Chung MC, Franzoi IG. Editorial: Psychological interventions addressed to higher education students in student psychological services. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1129697. [PMID: 36755672 PMCID: PMC9900133 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1129697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Giangrasso
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Psychology, University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Man Cheung Chung
- College of Natural and Health Sciences, Zayed University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Isabella Giulia Franzoi
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy,*Correspondence: Isabella Giulia Franzoi ✉
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Chung MC, Freh FM. The Impact of Death Anxiety, Meaning and Coping on Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Psychiatric Co-Morbidity Among Iraqi Civilians Exposed to a Car Bomb Attack A Latent Class Analysis. J Interpers Violence 2022; 37:NP20972-NP20993. [PMID: 34854340 DOI: 10.1177/08862605211055152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Much has been documented that the experience of a bombing is associated with posttraumatic stress disorder and psychiatric co-morbidity. Whether the co-existing relationship between death anxiety, meaning in life and coping styles would influence the aforementioned association is unknown. The present study aimed to identify latent classes of victims with different levels of death anxiety, meaning in life and coping styles, and to examine whether the severity of PTSD and co-morbid psychiatric symptoms differed between classes. One hundred and eighty-five victims who had experienced the first car bombing completed a demographic page, the Posttraumatic Stress Diagnosis Scale, General Health Questionnaire-28, Multidimensional Fear of Death Scale, Meaning in Life Questionnaire and Coping Responses Inventory. The results showed that 82% and 18% of the victims met the criteria for PTSD and no-PTSD, respectively. Four classes of victims were identified: Class 1 victims were approach copers with low levels of death anxiety and meaning. Class 2 victims were minimal copers with high levels of death anxiety and meaning. Class 3 victims were approach copers with a high level of death anxiety and meaning. Class 4 victims were avoidance copers with high levels of death anxiety. Individuals in Class 1 reported significantly lower levels of PTSD and psychiatric co-morbidity than the other three classes. Class 3 victims also reported significantly lower levels of psychiatric co-morbidity than Class 2 victims. To conclude, victims exposed to a car bombing were likely to exhibit posttraumatic stress symptoms in addition to other psychological symptoms. The severity of these symptoms tended to be lower among those who had little fear of death, did not search for meaning in life and approached their distress proactively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Psychology, 54483Zayed University, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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Chung MC, Chen ZS, Han BX. The impact of anger and self-concealment on post-traumatic stress and psychiatric comorbid symptoms in Chinese prisoners: A longitudinal study. Crim Behav Ment Health 2022; 32:320-336. [PMID: 36036197 DOI: 10.1002/cbm.2257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research reported prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among prisoners varies between countries, with most studies based on Western samples. The trajectory of symptoms has also been controversial. Trauma can affect prisoners' emotions and their emotional regulation tends to be maladaptive. AIMS To examine changes in PTSD and psychiatric comorbidity among prisoners in China over time and to determine whether anger and self-concealment predicts later distress. METHOD In a longitudinal, prospective study, sentenced men in one prison in China were asked to complete a demographic page and several self-rating scales: the Post-traumatic Stress Diagnostic Scale, the General Health Questionnaire-28, the Clinical Anger Scale and the Self-Concealment Scale at baseline and at 6 and 12 months after the initial assessment. RESULTS More than half of the 496 participating men were diagnosed with PTSD. For those completing the scales at each evaluation, PTSD-DS scores were significantly lower at baseline than at the 6-month and 1-year assessments. No significant differences were found between the two follow-up scores. There was no significant difference in psychiatric comorbidity between the three phases. At the cross-sectional level, after controlling for age and education level, PTSD, anger and self-concealment were associated with psychiatric comorbidity. At the prospective level, anger predicted PTSD 6 months and 1 year later. Self-concealment predicted psychiatric comorbidity over time. CONCLUSIONS Among these prisoners the prevalence of chronic PTSD was far higher than in general population estimates. Early identification of aspects of coping styles is likely to help predict disorder trajectory and inform interventions. Early signs of anger were indicative of the chronic severity of trauma reactions, while the intention to hide distress was related to other later mental health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Psychology, Zayed University, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Zhuo Sheng Chen
- School of Law, Guangzhou College of Commerce, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bu Xin Han
- Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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Liu F, Chui H, Chung MC. Reciprocal/Authoritarian Filial Piety and Mental Well-Being in the Chinese LGB Population: The Roles of LGB-Specific and General Interpersonal Factors. Arch Sex Behav 2022; 51:3513-3527. [PMID: 34791585 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02130-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Although filial piety is considered as a salient value in the Chinese culture, studies on the mental well-being of Chinese lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals rarely take filial piety into account or examine it in relation to other variables to clarify the mechanism between filial piety and mental well-being. A total of 1453 LGB participants from 30 provinces and regions in Mainland China completed the online survey. They provided demographic information and completed measures of filial piety, a general interpersonal factor (i.e., perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness), an LGB-specific interpersonal factor (i.e., perceived parental support for sexual orientation), and mental well-being. Structural equation modelling results indicated that higher reciprocal filial piety was directly, and indirectly through lower thwarted belongingness, associated with better mental well-being. Lower authoritarian filial piety was indirectly associated with better mental well-being through higher perceived parental support for sexual orientation and lower thwarted belongingness. In addition, reciprocal filial piety had a stronger effect on perceived parental support for sexual orientation and perceived burdensomeness among lesbians and bisexual women than gay and bisexual men. These findings suggest that reciprocal filial piety is a protective factor, whereas authoritarian filial piety is a risk factor, for the mental well-being of Chinese LGB persons. Moreover, perceived parental support for sexual orientation and thwarted belongingness might be the mechanisms underlying the effect of reciprocal/authoritarian filial piety on mental well-being. Implications of findings for practice and research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangsong Liu
- Department of Applied Psychology, Guangdong University of Foreign Studies, Guangzhou, 511436, China.
| | - Harold Chui
- Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Psychology, Zayed University, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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Chung MC, Wang Y, Wu X, Wang N, Liu F, Ye Z, Peng T. Comparison between emerging adults and adults in terms of contamination fear, post-COVID-19 PTSD and psychiatric comorbidity. Curr Psychol 2022:1-12. [PMID: 36124044 PMCID: PMC9476456 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-03719-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The present study compared Chinese emerging adults and adults regarding the association between contamination fear, posttraumatic stress disorder post-COVID-19 and psychiatric comorbidity after controlling for demographic and trauma exposure variables. 1089 Chinese civilians (M = 382; F = 707) with a mean age of 26 years (M = 26.36, SD = 8.58) were recruited from different provinces in China via an online survey posted on mainstream Chinese social networking platforms. They completed a demographic page with questions on trauma exposure, the Vancouver Obsessional Compulsive Inventory, the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for DSM-5 and the General Health Questionnaire-28. Results showed that 12.7%, 68.7% and 18.6% met criteria for full, partial and no PTSD, respectively. Emerging adults reported significantly lower levels of symptoms of re-experiencing, avoidance, somatic problems, anxiety and fear of contamination than adults. In both emerging adults and adults, contamination fear was correlated with PTSD and psychiatric comorbidity. High educational attainment was significantly correlated with psychiatric comorbidity in emerging adults, but with PTSD in adults. Length of quarantine was correlated with psychiatric comorbidity only in adults. In conclusion, both emerging adults and adults developed varying levels of contamination fear, posttraumatic stress and general psychological symptoms following the outbreak of COVID-19. Emerging adults were more resilient than adults in coping with distress.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yabing Wang
- Center for Linguistics and Applied Linguistics, Guangdong University of Foreign Studies, Guangzhou, China
- School of English Education, Guangdong University of Foreign Studies, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xili Wu
- School of Foreign Languages, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Na Wang
- School of Foreign Languages, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Fangsong Liu
- School of Psychology, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, China
| | - Zilan Ye
- School of Humanities and Management, Guangdong Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ting Peng
- Shunde Wu Zhong Pei Hospital, Guangzhou, China
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Wang N, Chung MC, Zhang J, Fang S. Network analysis on the relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder, psychiatric co-morbidity and posttraumatic growth among Chinese adolescents. J Affect Disord 2022; 309:461-470. [PMID: 35513114 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.04.148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study investigated the association between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), psychiatric co-morbidity and posttraumatic growth (PTG) among Chinese adolescents using network analysis. METHODS 867 Chinese adolescents (male = 424, female = 443) were recruited from three secondary schools. They completed the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for DSM-5, the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory, and the General Health Questionnaire-28. RESULTS Domains of each construct mainly clustered within their respective communities with several bridging edges identified. The prominent roles of bridging nodes and edges (positive and negative) were highlighted. Key bridging nodes were negative alterations in cognitions and mood for PTSD, anxiety and insomnia for psychiatric co-morbidity and appreciation of life for PTG. LIMITATIONS The cross-sectional nature of the present study may preclude the identification of real causal relationships between nodes. CONCLUSIONS Following a trauma, adolescents displayed posttraumatic stress along with general psychological disorder symptoms. These distress reactions could affect the way they appreciated life and their motivation to seek future life possibilities. Findings from the current study may provide some clue for the facilitation of posttraumatic growth among clinical patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Wang
- Department of Educational Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Psychology, Zayed University, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Jieting Zhang
- College of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Siqi Fang
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
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Wang N, Chung MC, Liu F, Wang Y. Posttraumatic stress on Chinese adolescents’ posttraumatic growth: The role of trauma centrality and emotion regulation. Curr Psychol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-03131-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Chung MC, Chen ZS. The Impact of Child Abuse and Dissociation on Psychiatric Comorbidity and Self-Concealment Among Prisoners in China. J Interpers Violence 2022; 37:2354-2372. [PMID: 32643991 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520935480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Child abuse is a common experience among prisoners in China and associated with elevated psychiatric comorbidity. However, the association between child abuse profiles and dissociation is unclear. The extent to which the relationship between these profiles and dissociation might influence psychiatric comorbidity and self-concealment is also unclear. This study examined the impact of this relationship on the preceding outcomes among prisoners in China using Latent Class Analysis. Four hundred and ninety-six male prisoners from China completed questionnaires measuring child abuse, dissociation, self-concealment, and psychiatric comorbidity. A three-class solution was achieved: Class 1 (neglected with moderate dissociation) prisoners had a minimal level of abuse, the highest level of neglect experience, and a medium level of dissociation; Class 2 (low neglect with low dissociation) prisoners also had a minimal level of abuse but lower levels of neglect experience and dissociation; Class 3 (abused and neglected with high dissociation) prisoners had high levels of child abuse, neglect, and dissociation. Controlling for age, Class 3 reported significantly higher psychiatric comorbidity and self-concealment than the other two classes. Class 1 was more depressed than Class 2; Class 2 was more likely to engage in self-concealment than Class 1. To conclude, the kinds of childhood maltreatment experienced by prisoners and their readiness to detach from distressing emotions can influence the severity of current distress symptoms and the tendency to conceal things about themselves.
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Chung MC, Shakra M. The Association Between Trauma Centrality and Posttraumatic Stress Among Syrian Refugees: The Impact of Cognitive Distortions and Trauma-Coping Self-Efficacy. J Interpers Violence 2022; 37:1852-1877. [PMID: 32515293 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520926311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
While research suggests that the war in Syria has led to a drastic re-evaluation of oneself and elevated psychiatric symptoms among Syrian refugees, little is known whether these psychological reactions might be influenced by maladaptive beliefs about oneself and the world and their ability to cope with the effect of the trauma. This study aimed to provide further evidence on the association between trauma centrality, posttraumatic stress, and psychiatric comorbidity, and examine whether cognitive distortions and trauma-coping self-efficacy would mediate the impact of trauma centrality on distress among Syrian refugees residing in Sweden. Four-hundred seventy-five Syrian refugees completed a demographic page, the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire, General Health Questionnaire-28, Centrality of Event Scale, Cognitive Distortion Scales, and trauma-coping self-efficacy. Results showed that trauma centrality was significantly correlated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and psychiatric comorbidity after adjusting the effects of trauma exposure characteristics. Cognitive distortions mediated the impact of trauma centrality on the two distress outcomes; trauma-coping self-efficacy did not but was negatively correlated with outcomes. To conclude, the war in Syria changed self-perception, outlook on life, and identity among Syrian refugees. These changes were related to increased psychological symptoms especially for those who had distorted beliefs about themselves and the world. Refugees' belief in the lack of ability to cope with the effect of the trauma impacted psychological distress independently of changes in self-perception.
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Liu F, Chui H, Chung MC. Clients' experience of LGBQ affirmative and nonaffirmative practice in China: An interpretative phenomenological analysis. Psychotherapy (Chic) 2022; 59:1-12. [PMID: 35084885 DOI: 10.1037/pst0000428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and questioning (LGBQ) affirmative therapy originated from an individualistic culture that emphasizes autonomy and personal independence, but it has become more commonly practiced in Mainland China. Given the influence of collectivistic culture, where Chinese people value interpersonal relationship and harmony more than personal interest, it is unclear whether Chinese sexual minority clients have different expectations and experiences of LGBQ affirmative practice. The purpose of this study is to explore Chinese LGBQ clients' perceived characteristics and impacts of LGBQ affirmative and nonaffirmative practice. A sample of 12 Chinese LGBQ individuals aged 20-35 were recruited to complete an in-depth semistructured interview. Using interpretative phenomenological analysis, two superordinate and nine subordinate themes emerged. Findings from the subordinate themes suggest that counselors working with Chinese LGBQ clients should demonstrate calm assurance rather than being effusive when communicating their affirming attitude, enrich their LGBQ-related knowledge and improve their capacity to provide guidance, and use LGBQ affirmative skills flexibly based on clients' sexual identity development and presenting problems. In addition, LGBQ affirmative practice might be a promising approach to facilitate the counseling process for Chinese LGBQ clients. Implications for these findings are discussed. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).
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Wong SL, Chung MC. The subjective experience of non-suicidal self-injury among female Chinese university students. Nord J Psychiatry 2022; 76:18-28. [PMID: 34061715 DOI: 10.1080/08039488.2021.1929461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to explore the subjective experience of non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) among female Chinese university students in Hong Kong. DESIGN Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used. METHODS Seven female students participated in the study, two engaged in biting and scratching, and three in cutting. RESULTS The majority of them indicated negative attitudes towards NSSI and saw no particular meaning attached to it. However, they all persisted with their behaviours, which suggested that they were unable to stop. Students found themselves in a paradoxical situation whereby although they saw no real benefit of NSSI, they still engaged in it to cope with distress. Feelings characterised by this distress were about entrapment and issues with academia, intimacy, loneliness, insecurity, negative self-worth, regulating distressing emotions, increasing positive physical sensations, healing oneself, and feeling alive. CONCLUSIONS The experience of hurting themselves persistently for these female students symbolised their struggle with academic or relationship difficulties, self-acceptance, emotional regulation and survival without self-injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siu Ling Wong
- Student Affairs Office, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong
| | - Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Educational Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
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Fang S, Chung MC. Testing the pain paradox: a longitudinal study on PTSD from past trauma, alexithymia, mindfulness, and psychological distress. Curr Psychol 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-02162-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Wang Y, Chung MC, Fang S. Post-Traumatic Distress and Burnout Among Chinese School Teachers: The Mediating Role of Forgiveness. Front Psychol 2021; 12:642926. [PMID: 34393882 PMCID: PMC8362850 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.642926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Teachers’ mental health is concerning due to high stress at work. Its association with job-related stressors has been well-documented. Little is known; however, about how traumatic life events and trauma reactions might contribute to their psychological distress. This paper is to explore whether Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) following past traumatic event would predict burnout and psychiatric co-morbidity among Chinese k-12 school teachers and whether this prediction would be mediated by forgiveness after controlling for work-related factors. Methods Two hundred and seventy-nine Chinese teachers (F = 223, M = 56) from primary and secondary schools completed demographic information, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5), Heartland Forgiveness Scale (HFS), General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28), Maslach Burnout Inventory-Educator’s Survey (MBI-ES), and a series of measures assessing work-related factors. Results Structured equation modeling (SEM) showed that after controlling for work-related factors, PTSD following past trauma was positively associated with burnout and general psychological problems but negatively associated with levels of forgiveness. Forgiveness carried the impact of PTSD onto burnout rather than general psychological distress. Conclusion To conclude, regardless of the level of stress experienced from working in school, primary and secondary teachers with PTSD from past trauma found it more difficult forgiving which in turn could affect their levels of burnout.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yabing Wang
- School of English Education, Guangdong University of Foreign Studies, Guangzhou, China
| | - Man Cheung Chung
- Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Siqi Fang
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Freh FM, Cheung Chung M. Posttraumatic stress disorder and death anxiety among Iraqi civilians exposed to a suicide car bombing: the role of religious coping and attachment. J Ment Health 2021; 30:743-750. [PMID: 34264784 DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2021.1952954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of a bombing has been studied in the literature. Limited studies have focused attention on PTSD following a suicide car bombing. However, more research is needed to explore the risk factors for this psychological response. AIMS To examine a hypothesised model that death anxiety would be associated with PTSD and psychiatric comorbidity following a suicide car bombing, and that attachment styles and religious coping would influence the impact of this anxiety on distress outcomes. METHODS 185 Iraqi civilians exposed to the first suicide car bombing completed questionnaires measuring PTSD, psychiatric comorbidity, death anxiety, religious coping, and attachment experiences. RESULTS 82% met diagnostic criteria for PTSD, the remainder did not. Path analysis showed that death anxiety was significantly correlated with psychiatric comorbidity; it was also correlated with attachment, which was correlated with psychiatric comorbidity. Death anxiety was also significantly correlated with religious coping, which was correlated with both distress outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Although Iraqi civilians reported increased death anxiety following a suicide car bombing, those who used religion to cope with the traumatic experience and had functional attachment experiences in the past reported low levels of psychological distress.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Educational Psychology, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
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Ye Z, Chung MC, Di X. The co-existing relationship between child abuse, emotional suppression, interpersonal sensitivity and psychiatric co-morbidity among Chinese prisoners. Curr Psychol 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-02060-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Wong SL, Chung MC. Child abuse and non-suicidal self-injury among Chinese university students: the role of emotion dysregulation and attachment style. Curr Psychol 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-01832-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Wang Y, Chung MC, Wang N, Yu X, Kenardy J. Social support and posttraumatic stress disorder: A meta-analysis of longitudinal studies. Clin Psychol Rev 2021; 85:101998. [PMID: 33714168 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2021.101998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Social support has long been associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but there is no consistent evidence on the strength and direction of this relationship. Whereas the social causation model claims that social support buffers against PTSD, the social selection model states that PTSD reduces social support resources. As the first meta-analysis of the prospective relationships between social support and PTSD, this study synthesized the available longitudinal data (75 samples including 32,402 participants) on these two constructs with a random-effects model. In total, three hundred and fifty-five effect sizes (including cross-sectional, prospective and cross-lagged coefficients) were included in the meta-analysis. With prior levels of the relevant outcomes controlled for, results showed that social support and PTSD reciprocally predicted each other over time with similar effect sizes: Social support predicted PTSD with β = -0.10; PTSD predicted social support with β = -0.09. Moderator analyses suggested that the effects held across most sample characteristics and research designs except for several moderators (gender, time lag, publication year, source of support). These findings provided strong evidence for both the social causation and social selection models, suggesting that the link between social support and PTSD is symmetrically reciprocal and robust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yabing Wang
- School of English Education, Guangdong University of Foreign Studies, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Educational Psychology, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| | - Na Wang
- Department of Educational Psychology, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| | - Xiaoxiao Yu
- School of Foreign Languages, Guangzhou College, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Justin Kenardy
- School of Psychology, University of Queensland, Australia.
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Chung MC, Ye Z, Wang N, Thomas J. Linking posttraumatic stress disorder with eating disorders among Emirati university female students: The role of self-concealment. Curr Psychol 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-01391-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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21
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Chung MC, Chen ZS. The Interrelationship Between Child Abuse, Emotional Processing Difficulties, Alexithymia And Psychological Symptoms Among Chinese Adolescents. J Trauma Dissociation 2021; 22:107-121. [PMID: 32673192 DOI: 10.1080/15299732.2020.1788689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the interrelationship between child abuse, emotional processing difficulties, alexithymia, and psychological symptoms with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms from past traumas adjusted among Chinese adolescents. Eight hundred adolescents completed questionnaires measuring the preceding psychological constructs. After controlling for PTSD from past trauma, structural equation modeling showed that child abuse correlated with emotional processing difficulty which correlated with alexithymia. In turn, alexithymia correlated with psychological symptom severity. To conclude, child abuse can affect psychological health among Chinese adolescents. This relationship, however, is influenced by the degree to which processing distressing emotions and getting in touch with internal feelings is avoided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Educational Psychology, Ho Tim Building, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong , Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Zhuo Sheng Chen
- China University of Political Science and Law , Beijing, China
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22
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Liu F, Chui H, Chung MC. The effects of lesbian, gay, and bisexual experiences and internal beliefs on lesbian, gay, and bisexual affirmative counselor competence among Chinese counselors. Psychotherapy (Chic) 2020; 58:25-36. [PMID: 33017162 DOI: 10.1037/pst0000346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) affirmative counselor competence is important for counselors to work effectively with sexual minority clients, but the level of competence is unclear among counselors in China, given the more conservative sociocultural climate. To understand the factors that contribute to Chinese counselors' LGB affirmative counselor competence, this study examined how situational (e.g., LGB experiences) and cognitive factors (e.g., internal beliefs) contribute to such competence in light of cultural learning theory. A total of 672 counselors (79.40% female; Mage = 36.33 years, SD = 7.87) from Mainland China completed an online survey. They provided information about demographics and LGB experiences (i.e., hours of LGB training, number of LGB clients, and number of LGB friends) and completed the Essentialist Beliefs Scale, Social Dominance Orientation Scale, and Sexual Orientation Counselor Competency Scale (SOCCS). Structural equation modeling results indicated that number of LGB friends was positively associated with SOCCS-Attitude. Number of LGB clients had the greatest effect on SOCCS-Skill, followed by hours of LGB training and number of LGB friends. Lower discreteness belief, higher immutability belief, and lower social dominance orientation were associated with higher level of SOCCS-Attitude. Higher universality belief was associated with higher levels of SOCCS-Knowledge and Skill. Interestingly, more hours of LGB training were not associated with higher levels of SOCCS-Attitude and Knowledge. In addition, counselors' gender or sexual orientation did not moderate the effects of LGB experiences and internal beliefs on LGB affirmative counselor competence. The implications for these findings are discussed. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangsong Liu
- Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
| | - Harold Chui
- Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
| | - Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
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23
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Chung MC, Slanbekova GK, Kabakova MP, Kalymbetova EK, Kudaibergenova AZ. The relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder, trauma centrality, interpersonal sensitivity and psychiatric co-morbidity among students in Kazakhstan: a Latent Class Analysis. J Ment Health 2020; 30:698-705. [PMID: 32938238 DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2020.1818704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trauma can lead to trauma centrality and affect levels of interpersonal sensitivity and psychiatric co-morbidity. Whether a coexisting relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma centrality can influence levels of interpersonal sensitivity and psychiatric co-morbidity among university students from Kazakhstan is unknown. AIM To investigate the impact of the aforementioned co-existing relationship on interpersonal sensitivity and psychiatric co-morbidity among Kazakh university students. METHODS 597 students (F = 428, M = 169) completed questionnaires measuring PTSD, psychiatric co-morbidity, interpersonal sensitivity, and trauma centrality. RESULTS 28%, 32% and 40% met the criteria for full, partial and no-PTSD, respectively. Latent Class Analysis revealed a three-class solution: Class 1 (the altered-self group) with a low level of PTSD but a high level of trauma centrality, Class 2 (the traumatized-self group) with high levels of PTSD and trauma centrality and Class 3 (the low symptom group) with low levels of PTSD and trauma centrality. There were significant differences in the levels of interpersonal sensitivity and psychiatric co-morbidity across three classes. CONCLUSION There are individual differences in the display of posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms, and trauma centrality. These differences can influence interaction with others and psychological distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Ho Tim Building, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | | | - Maira Pobedovna Kabakova
- Department of General and Applied Psychology, Kazakh National University Named After Al-Farabi, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Elmira Kenesovna Kalymbetova
- Department of General and Applied Psychology, Kazakh National University Named After Al-Farabi, Almaty, Kazakhstan
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24
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Wang Y, Chung MC. Linking Rejection Sensitivity, Shyness and Unsociability with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Psychiatric Co-Morbidity among Chinese Adolescents. Psychiatr Q 2020; 91:309-319. [PMID: 31898211 DOI: 10.1007/s11126-019-09701-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated whether rejection sensitivity (RS), shyness and unsociability would positively correlate with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and psychiatric co-morbidity and whether shyness and unsociability would mediate the impact of RS on distress outcomes. Four hundred and one adolescents from three middle schools in China completed a demographic questionnaire, Children's Rejection Sensitivity Questionnaire, Children's Shyness Questionnaire, Child Social Preference Scale, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for DSM-5, and the General Health Questionnaire-28. The results showed that RS and shyness were mostly correlated with PTSD and psychiatric co-morbidity whereas unsociability was not and therefore not a mediator. Shyness, on the other hand, mediated the impact of angry RS and anxious RS on PTSD, as well as anxious RS on psychiatric co-morbidity. To conclude, the severity of PTSD along with other psychological difficulties tends to increase for those who are shy and sensitive to rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yabing Wang
- Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong.
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25
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Chung MC, Chen ZS. Gender Differences in Child Abuse, Emotional Processing Difficulties, Alexithymia, Psychological Symptoms and Behavioural Problems among Chinese Adolescents. Psychiatr Q 2020; 91:321-332. [PMID: 31900820 DOI: 10.1007/s11126-019-09700-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Child abuse among adolescents in China has been documented and can lead to a whole range of psychological and behavioural problems. This study examined whether male and female adolescents would differ in level of child abuse, emotional processing difficulties, alexithymia, psychological symptoms and behavioural problems, and whether the pattern of association between these variables would vary depending on gender. Eight hundred adolescents were recruited from China and completed the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, Emotional Processing Scale, Toronto Alexithymia Scale, General Health Questionnaire, and Prediction Test of Problem Children. Male adolescents reported significantly higher levels of emotional and physical neglect, and external oriented thinking style than female adolescents. Females reported significantly more anxiety symptoms and problems with learning than males. For males, child abuse was associated with emotional processing difficulties which were associated with alexithymia. In turn, alexithymia was associated with both psychological and behavioural problems. For females, the same association was established for predicting behavioural problems but not psychological symptoms. Male and female adolescents differed in level of child abuse, alexithymia, psychological symptoms and behavioural problems. These psychological constructs were connected in a specific pattern to trigger psychological and behavioural problems for male adolescents whereas for females, different patterns were involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Cheung Chung
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Department of Educational Psychology, Ho Tim Building, Faculty of Education, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong.
| | - Zhuo Sheng Chen
- The Criminal Psychology Research Center, China University of Political Science and Law, Beijing, China
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26
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Fang S, Chung MC, Wang Y. The Impact of Past Trauma on Psychological Distress: The Roles of Defense Mechanisms and Alexithymia. Front Psychol 2020; 11:992. [PMID: 32670128 PMCID: PMC7326135 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms following past trauma could lead to psychological distress. Little is known, however, about the roles of defense mechanisms and alexithymia may play in the process. The current study aimed to examine the potential impact of alexithymia and defense mechanisms on the relationship between past trauma and distress among Chinese university students. Method 455 university students completed a set of questionnaires: PTSD Checklists for DSM-5, Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), Defense Style Questionnaire, and General Health Questionnaire-28. Results PTSD following past trauma was associated with increased psychological distress. Alexithymia and defenses (especially immature defense) mediated the path between PTSD and psychological co-morbidities. Conclusion Following past trauma, people developed PTSD and other psychological symptoms. The severity of these distress symptoms was influenced by the way they defended themselves psychologically, and their ability to identify, express, and process distressing emotions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Fang
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Yabing Wang
- Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
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27
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Chung MC, AlQarni N, AlMazrouei M, Al Muhairi S, Shakra M, Mitchell B, Al Mazrouei S, Al Hashimi S. Posttraumatic stress disorder and psychiatric co-morbidity among Syrian refugees: the role of trauma exposure, trauma centrality, self-efficacy and emotional suppression. J Ment Health 2020; 30:681-689. [PMID: 32325003 DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2020.1755023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Background: The devastation of the Syrian war can lead to a drastic re-evaluation of oneself and alteration in self-capacities. Yet, little is known regarding its impact on these domains among Syrian refugees.Aims: To investigate the inter-relationship between trauma characteristics, trauma centrality, self-efficacy, emotional suppression, PTSD and psychiatric co-morbidity among Syrian refugees.Methods: 1197 refugees from Turkey and Sweden completed the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire, General Health Questionnaire-28, Centrality of Event Scale, Generalized Self-Efficacy Scale and Courtauld Emotional Control Scale.Results: Using the DSM-IV criteria for PTSD from the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire, 43% met the criteria. The PTSD group reported significantly higher levels of trauma characteristics, trauma centrality and psychiatric co-morbidity but a lower level of self-efficacy than the non-PTSD group. Trauma characteristics were positively associated with trauma centrality; trauma centrality was negatively correlated with self-efficacy. Contrary to hypothesis, self-efficacy was positively correlated with emotional suppression which was positively correlated with psychiatric co-morbidity but not PTSD.Conclusions: The experience of war can lead to the emergence of PTSD among Syrian refugees. Exposure to war can alter self-perception, belief of personal mastery over one's future and the way emotion is expressed, all of which can have specific effects on general psychological symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Educational Psychology, Ho Tim Building, Faculty of Education, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin NT, Hong Kong
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28
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Wang N, Chung MC, Wang Y. The relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder, trauma centrality, posttraumatic growth and psychiatric co-morbidity among Chinese adolescents. Asian J Psychiatr 2020; 49:101940. [PMID: 32065961 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2020.101940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the inter-relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from past trauma, psychiatric co-morbidity, trauma centrality and posttraumatic growth (PTG) among Chinese adolescents. Nine hundred and forty-eight Chinese adolescents (M = 462, F = 486) were recruited from two secondary schools. They completed the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for DSM-5, the Centrality of Events Scale, the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory, the General Health Questionnaire-28, and the Educational Stress Scale for Adolescents. After controlling for demographic variables and levels of academic stress, structural equation modeling showed that PTSD was positively associated with trauma centrality and psychiatric co-morbidity but negatively associated with posttraumatic growth. Trauma centrality mediated the impacts of PTSD on posttraumatic growth and psychiatric co-morbidity. To conclude, PTSD from past trauma could impact adolescents' ways of perceiving positive aspects of their trauma and psychological well-being. Such impact, however, was influenced by the changes in their self-concept.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Wang
- Department of Educational Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| | - Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Educational Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| | - Yabing Wang
- Department of Educational Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
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29
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Hoelterhoff M, Chung MC. Self-Efficacy as an Agentic Protective Factor against Death Anxiety in PTSD and Psychiatric Co-Morbidity. Psychiatr Q 2020; 91:165-181. [PMID: 31802409 PMCID: PMC7033080 DOI: 10.1007/s11126-019-09694-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
PTSD has profound personal, social and economic impact. Understanding factors that influence strong recovery is a priority for informing the use of limited treatment resources. This study follows up a preliminary finding from Hoelterhoff and Cheung Chung, Psychiatr Q, 88, 635-651, [30] which found that death anxiety is related to PTSD and suggested that self-efficacy may mediate this relationship. Specifically, this study examined self-efficacy as a protective factor in the context of people who have experienced a life-threatening event. 109 undergraduate university students completed self-report questionnaires on, self-efficacy, death anxiety, trauma and well-being as well as a number of demographic factors. Self-efficacy was found that to be significantly and inversely related to death anxiety and psychiatric co-morbidity, but not PTSD. Results were discussed in light of literature regarding death anxiety. It seems that self-efficacy is related to death anxiety and well-being; however, it interacts with these processes independently and not as a mediating factor. More research is needed to understand coping mechanisms that help develop resilience against the negative effects of death anxiety against PTSD and minimize its detrimental impact on mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Hoelterhoff
- School of Health in Social Science, Medical School, University of Edinburgh, Doorway 6 Teviot Place, Edinburgh, EH8 9AG, UK.
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30
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Slanbekova GK, Chung MC, Ayupova GT, Kabakova MP, Kalymbetova EK, Korotkova-Ryckewaert NV. The Relationship between Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Interpersonal Sensitivity and Specific Distress Symptoms: the Role of Cognitive Emotion Regulation. Psychiatr Q 2019; 90:803-814. [PMID: 31423547 DOI: 10.1007/s11126-019-09665-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This study examined 1) the relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from past trauma, interpersonal sensitivity and psychiatric co-morbidity, and 2) whether cognitive emotion regulation strategies would mediate the impact of PTSD on specific distress outcomes. Four hundred seventy-five Kazakh students (F = 336, M = 139) participated in the study and completed a demographic page, Posttraumatic Stress Diagnostic Scale for DSM-5, General Health Questionnaire-28, Interpersonal Sensitivity Measure and Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire. The results showed that 71% reported that they had experienced at least one trauma throughout their lifespan, of whom 39% met the criteria for full-PTSD. Controlling for age and university majors, PTSD was associated with interpersonal sensitivity and psychiatric co-morbidity. Cognitive emotion regulation strategies were correlated with specific distress outcomes. Whilst positive reappraisal and refocusing on planning were associated with interpersonal sensitivity, self-blame and putting the trauma into perspective were associated with psychiatric co-morbidity. Self-blame mediated the impact of PTSD on psychiatric co-morbidity. To conclude, trauma can heighten levels of sensitivity in interpersonal interaction and psychological symptoms. Having specific thoughts about the trauma can impact on specific psychological reactions. Blaming oneself for the trauma can influence its impact on the severity of psychological symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Ho Tim Building, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong.
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31
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Slanbekova GK, Chung MC, Karipbaev BI, Sabirova RS, Alimbayeva RT. Posttraumatic Stress and Interpersonal Sensitivity: Alexithymia as Mediator and Emotional Expressivity as Moderator. Psychiatr Q 2019; 90:249-261. [PMID: 30515699 DOI: 10.1007/s11126-018-9612-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This study examined 1) the link between PTSD from past trauma, interpersonal sensitivity and psychiatric co-morbidity, 2) mediational effects of alexithymia on 1), and 3) moderated mediational effects with emotional expressivity as the moderator. Five hundred and fifteen Kazakh students completed the Posttraumatic Stress Diagnostic Scale, General Health Questionnaire-28, Toronto Alexithymia Scale-20, Berkeley Expressivity Questionnaire and Interpersonal Sensitivity Measure. The results showed that 28% met the criteria for full-PTSD. Controlling for academic year, age and university major, PTSD from past trauma was significantly correlated with interpersonal sensitivity and psychiatric co-morbidity. Alexithymia mediated the impact of PTSD on interpersonal sensitivity and psychiatric co-morbidity. Alexithymia, however, did not interact with type of emotional expressivity to influence outcomes. Moderated mediational effects were not found. To conclude, following trauma, Kazakh students can experience heightened levels of interpersonal sensitivity and psychological symptoms. These problems are particularly severe for those who have difficulty getting in touch with their emotions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Ho Tim Building, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong.
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32
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Chung MC, Freh FM. The trajectory of bombing-related posttraumatic stress disorder among Iraqi civilians: Shattered world assumptions and altered self-capacities as mediators; attachment and crisis support as moderators. Psychiatry Res 2019; 273:1-8. [PMID: 30634110 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2019.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Revised: 01/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the impact of bombing on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and psychiatric co-morbidity over time, whether this relationship was mediated by shattered world assumptions and altered self-capacities, and whether the mediational effects were moderated by attachment style and crisis support among Iraqi civilians. One hundred and fifty-nine Iraqi civilians completed questionnaires measuring the aforementioned psychological constructs. Bombing exposure was associated with PTSD and psychiatric co-morbidity over time; 87% and 77% met the criteria for PTSD at baseline and five months respectively. Shattered world assumptions and altered self-capacities mediated the impact of bombing exposure on PTSD and psychiatric co-morbidity over time. The mediational effect for shattered world assumptions was not moderated by attachment style and crisis support. However, the mediational effect for altered self-capacities was moderated by fearful attachment and a medium level of crisis support. To conclude, following bombing, Iraqi civilians' assumptions about the world and others can change. These changes can have long term effects on psychological distress but are not influenced by childhood attachment experiences or the amount of crisis support received. Bombing can also change civilians' perceptions of internal capacities like emotional regulation, particularly those with fearful attachment who rely on crisis support to some extent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Educational Psychology, Ho Tim Building, Faculty of Education, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong.
| | - Fuaad Mohammed Freh
- University of Anbar, College of Education for Humanities, Department of Psychology, Iraq
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33
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Fang S, Chung MC. The impact of past trauma on psychological distress among Chinese students: The roles of cognitive distortion and alexithymia. Psychiatry Res 2019; 271:136-143. [PMID: 30472509 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2018.11.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2018] [Revised: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Past traumatic events are distressing experiences which can result in the emergence of posttraumatic stress disorders (PTSD) and other psychological symptoms among university students. However, little is known as to whether or not cognitive distortion and alexithymia would influence the severity of these distress outcomes. This study examined a cognitive-emotional framework depicting potential roles that cognitive distortion and alexithymia could play in influencing the relationship between past trauma and psychiatric co-morbidities among university students in China. One thousand one hundred and eleven participants completed the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5, Cognitive Distortion Scale (CDS), Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), and General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28). Results indicated that PTSD following past trauma was significantly associated with increased psychiatric co-morbidities after controlling for covariates. Both alexithymia and distorted cognition mediated the association between PTSD and psychiatric co-morbidities. To conclude, university students can develop PTSD from past trauma and other mental health problems. The severity of psychological distress can be influenced by their distorted perceptions of themselves, the world, and the future, as well as their ability to identify, describe, and express distressing emotions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Fang
- Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, People's Repulic of China.
| | - Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, People's Repulic of China.
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34
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Chung MC, AlQarni N, AlMazrouei M, Al Muhairi S, Shakra M, Mitchell B, Al Mazrouei S, Al Hashimi S. Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Psychiatric Co-morbidity among Syrian Refugees of Different Ages: the Role of Trauma Centrality. Psychiatr Q 2018; 89:909-921. [PMID: 29981008 DOI: 10.1007/s11126-018-9586-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
It has been documented that trauma centrality is associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and psychiatric co-morbidity among Syrian refugees. Whether age would influence the levels of the above constructs and the association between trauma centrality and distress outcomes is unclear. This study compared age differences in 1) the levels of trauma centrality, posttraumatic stress disorder and psychiatric co-morbidity, and 2) models depicting the association between trauma centrality and distress outcomes among Syrian refugees. One thousand one hundred and ninety-seven refugees completed the Centrality of Event Scale, Harvard Trauma Questionnaire and General Health Questionnaire-28. Age groups were divided into young, middle-aged adults and adults of 45 or above. No significant group differences were found in the proportion of refugees meeting the diagnostic criteria for PTSD. Controlling for demographic variables, all subscales of trauma centrality and psychiatric co-morbidity were significantly different between groups. Young adults reported significantly less trauma centrality and psychiatric co-morbidity than the other groups. Multiple-indicator multiple-cause modelling showed that trauma centrality was significantly correlated with PTSD and psychiatric co-morbidity. Multi-group analysis showed the model for the young adult group to be significantly different from the middle-aged group model. To conclude, age did not seem to influence the severity of PTSD among Syrian refugees. The war had a less severe impact on young adults' sense of self and other psychological problems than those who were older. The way in which young and middle-aged adults responded to distress varied depending on environment and personal characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Educational Psychology, Ho Tim Building, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong.
| | - Nowf AlQarni
- Zayed University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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Fang S, Chung MC, Watson C. The impact of posttraumatic stress symptoms, posttraumatic stress cognitions and interpersonal dependency on psychological co-morbidities following relationship dissolution among college students. J Ment Health 2018; 27:424-431. [DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2018.1437600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Fang
- Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, and
| | - Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, and
| | - Clare Watson
- Department of Psychology, Plymouth University, Plymouth, UK
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Chung MC, Symons C, Gilliam J, Kaminski ER. Posttraumatic stress disorder, emotional suppression and psychiatric co-morbidity in patients with chronic idiopathic urticaria: a moderated mediation analysis. J Ment Health 2018; 27:442-449. [PMID: 29431522 DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2018.1437601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is evidence suggesting that posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom severity and CIU severity are linked and partially mediated by the high-anxious defense mechanism. What is unclear is whether emotional suppression, as a defense serving the opposite purpose for high-anxious defense, can also act as a mediator and whether this mediational effect is partly influenced by time since trauma and trauma type. AIMS To investigate whether emotional suppression mediated the links between PTSD and CIU symptom severities, and PTSD and psychiatric co-morbid symptom severities. It then examined whether the mediating effect would be moderated by how long ago the trauma occurred and trauma type. METHODS One hundred CIU patients were compared with 60 allergy patients. They completed questionnaires measuring PTSD, psychiatric co-morbidity and emotional suppression. RESULTS Suppressing depression mediated the relationship between PTSD and psychiatric co-morbidity. How long ago the trauma occurred and trauma type moderated the mediational effect of suppressing depression. CONCLUSIONS Following a past trauma, CIU patients may develop PTSD symptoms which influence their psychological well-being through using different levels of emotional suppression, especially suppressing depression. The levels depend on the severity of PTSD symptoms, trauma history and whether they experienced interpersonal traumas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Cheung Chung
- a Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education , The Chinese University of Hong Kong , Shatin NT , Hong Kong , and
| | - Christine Symons
- b Department of Clinical Immunology & Allergy , Derriford Hospital , Plymouth , UK
| | - Jane Gilliam
- b Department of Clinical Immunology & Allergy , Derriford Hospital , Plymouth , UK
| | - Edward R Kaminski
- a Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education , The Chinese University of Hong Kong , Shatin NT , Hong Kong , and
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Cheung Chung M, AlQarni N, AlMazrouei M, Al Muhairi S, Shakra M, Mitchell B, Al Mazrouei S, Al Hashimi S. The impact of trauma exposure characteristics on post-traumatic stress disorder and psychiatric co-morbidity among Syrian refugees. Psychiatry Res 2018; 259:310-315. [PMID: 29100134 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2017.10.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Revised: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/22/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the impact of trauma exposure characteristics on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and psychiatric co-morbidity among Syrian refugees. One thousand one hundred and ninety-seven refugees residing in Turkey and Sweden participated in the research. They completed the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire and the General Health Questionnaire-28. Forty-three percent of refugees met the cutoff for PTSD. After adjusting for location of residence, witnessing horror and exposure to life threat and assault were significantly correlated with PTSD and psychiatric co-morbidity respectively. Death of, or life threat to family members or friends were significantly correlated with both distress outcomes. Refugees residing in Turkey had significantly higher levels of PTSD, psychiatric co-morbidity and trauma characteristics than those living in Sweden. To conclude, Syrian refugees who witnessed horror, life threat or had family or friends die, tended to have elevated psychological distress. Levels of distress among resettled refugees can vary depending on country of resettlement. We recommend systematic mental health screening and implementation of psychotherapeutic interventions to address issues pertaining to subjective experience of resettlement and trauma exposure for Syrian refugees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Cheung Chung
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Department of Educational Psychology, Ho Tim Building, Faculty of Education, Shatin NT, Hong Kong.
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Chung MC, Shakra M, AlQarni N, AlMazrouei M, Al Mazrouei S, Al Hashimi S. Posttraumatic Stress Among Syrian Refugees: Trauma Exposure Characteristics, Trauma Centrality, and Emotional Suppression. Psychiatry 2018; 81:54-70. [PMID: 29494788 DOI: 10.1080/00332747.2017.1354620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study revisited the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and examined a hypothesized model describing the interrelationship between trauma exposure characteristics, trauma centrality, emotional suppression, PTSD, and psychiatric comorbidity among Syrian refugees. METHODS A total of 564 Syrian refugees participated in the study and completed the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire, General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), Centrality of Event Scale, and Courtauld Emotional Control Scale. RESULTS Of the participants, 30% met the cutoff for PTSD. Trauma exposure characteristics (experiencing or witnessing horror and murder, kidnapping or disappearance of family members or friends) were associated with trauma centrality, which was associated with emotional suppression. Emotional suppression was associated with PTSD and psychiatric comorbid symptom severities. Suppression mediated the path between trauma centrality and distress outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Almost one-third of refugees can develop PTSD and other psychiatric problems following exposure to traumatic events during war. A traumatized identity can develop, of which life-threatening experiences is a dominant feature, leading to suppression of depression with associated psychological distress.
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Chung MC, AlQarni N, Al Muhairi S, Mitchell B. The relationship between trauma centrality, self-efficacy, posttraumatic stress and psychiatric co-morbidity among Syrian refugees: Is gender a moderator? J Psychiatr Res 2017; 94:107-115. [PMID: 28697422 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2017.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2017] [Revised: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 07/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the inter-relationship between trauma centrality, self-efficacy, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and psychiatric co-morbidity among a group of Syrian refugees living in Turkey, and whether gender would moderate the mediational effect of self-efficacy on the impact of trauma centrality on distress. Seven hundred and ninety-two Syrian refugees completed the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire, General Health Questionnaire-28, Centrality of Event Scale and Generalized Self-Efficacy Scale. The results showed that 52% met the cutoff for PTSD. Trauma centrality was positively correlated with PTSD, psychiatric co-morbidity and self-efficacy. Self-efficacy was negatively correlated with PTSD only. Gender did not moderate the mediational effect of self-efficacy on the path between trauma centrality and distress outcomes. To conclude, following exposure to traumatic events, more than half reported PTSD. Perception of the future and identity construction was affected. Signs of psychological distress were evident, alongside resilience, regardless of gender.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Cheung Chung
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Department of Educational Psychology, Ho Tim Building, Faculty of Education, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong.
| | - Nowf AlQarni
- Zayed University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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Abstract
Research was conducted examining how death anxiety influenced PTSD and mental health among people who have experienced a life-threatening event. This study was conducted using undergraduate university students in Lithuania. The study used a mixed-method design and in phase 1, participants (N = 97) completed self-report questionnaires that gathered information on demographics, death anxiety, trauma and well-being. Data indicated a significant correlation between death anxiety and PTSD, but not psychiatric co-morbidity. Phase 2 attempted to further explore the phenomenological experience of participants with full PTSD, and 6 semi-structured interviews were conducted. IPA analysis found three major themes in response to the life-threatening event; self-efficacy, religious coping and existential attitude. Overall these coping mechanisms allowed participants to develop resilience against the effects of death anxiety and minimize its negative impact on mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Hoelterhoff
- Faculty of Health and Science, Fusehill Campus, University of Cumbria, Carlisle, CA1 2HH, UK.
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Wagner EH, Hoelterhoff M, Chung MC. Posttraumatic stress disorder following asthma attack: the role of agency beliefs in mediating psychiatric morbidity. J Ment Health 2017; 26:342-350. [PMID: 28675709 DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2017.1340628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The link between serious illness and subsequent posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and psychiatric comorbidity has been established. In populations with asthma, however, few studies have investigated this link, or what psychological mechanisms mediate it. Healthcare guidance for chronic conditions, and PTSD literature, highlight "agency beliefs" as a direction for investigation. AIMS To determine the prevalence of PTSD following asthma attack, and investigate whether agency beliefs mediate PTSD and comorbid psychiatric symptoms in this population. METHOD We recruited 110 adults with asthma from online peer support forums. Participants completed the Asthma Symptom Checklist, PTSD Checklist, GHQ-28, General Self-Efficacy scale, and Multidimensional Health Locus of Control scale. RESULTS 20% of our sample met criteria for PTSD. Regression results indicated that higher asthma severity significantly predicted PTSD and psychiatric co-morbidity. Lower self-efficacy significantly predicted PTSD symptoms while controlling for asthma severity, however Locus of Control (LoC) did not improve the model further. Self-efficacy, but not LoC, significantly partially mediated the effect of asthma severity on PTSD severity and psychiatric co-morbidity. CONCLUSIONS PTSD and other psychiatric symptoms in asthma populations are mediated in part by self-efficacy. Safeguarding and improving self-efficacy in this population is an important area for future research and intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernest H Wagner
- a School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Medical School , Edinburgh , UK.,b Department of Clinical Psychology , NHS Grampian, Royal Cornhill Hospital , Aberdeen , UK
| | - Mark Hoelterhoff
- c Department of Psychology , University of Cumbria , Carlisle , UK , and
| | - Man Cheung Chung
- d Department of Educational Psychology , The Chinese University of Hong Kong , Hong Kong , Hong Kong
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Abstract
This study examined the incidence of PTSD and psychiatric co-morbidity among women who experienced stillbirth and investigated the relationship between locus of control, trauma characteristics of stillbirth, posttraumatic cognitions, PTSD and co-morbid psychiatric symptoms following stillbirth. Fifty women recorded information on stillbirth experiences, and completed the Posttraumatic Stress Diagnostic Scale, General Health Questionnaire-28, Edinburgh Post-natal Depression Scale, Rotter's Locus of Control Scale and the Posttraumatic Cognitions Inventory. 60, 28 and 12 % met the diagnostic criteria for probable full-PTSD, partial and no-PTSD respectively. Sixty-two percent and 54 % scored at or above the cutoff of the General Health Questionnaire-28 and postnatal depression respectively. Women who experienced stillbirth reported significantly more psychiatric co-morbid and post-natal depressive symptoms than the comparison group. Both groups were similar in locus of control. Women who experienced stillbirth reported negative cognitions about the self the most. After adjusting for postnatal depression, trauma characteristics were significantly correlated with Posttraumatic cognitions which, in turn, were significantly correlated with PTSD and psychiatric co-morbidity. Locus of control was not significantly correlated with psychological outcomes. Mediational analyses showed that negative cognitions about self mediated the relationship between trauma characteristics and psychiatric co-morbidity only. Women reported a high incidence of probable PTSD and co-morbid psychiatric symptoms following stillbirth. Stillbirth trauma characteristics influenced how they negatively perceived themselves. This then specifically influenced general psychological problems rather than PTSD symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Ho Tim Building, Shatin NT, Hong Kong.
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Slanbekova G, Chung MC, Abildina S, Sabirova R, Kapbasova G, Karipbaev B. The impact of coping and emotional intelligence on the relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder from past trauma, adjustment difficulty, and psychological distress following divorce. J Ment Health 2017; 26:334-341. [DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2017.1322186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gulnara Slanbekova
- Department of Psychology, Karaganda State University, Karagandy, Kazakhstan and
| | - Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Educational Psychology, Ho Tim Building, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin NT, Hong Kong
| | - Saltanat Abildina
- Department of Psychology, Karaganda State University, Karagandy, Kazakhstan and
| | - Raikhan Sabirova
- Department of Psychology, Karaganda State University, Karagandy, Kazakhstan and
| | - Gulzada Kapbasova
- Department of Psychology, Karaganda State University, Karagandy, Kazakhstan and
| | - Baizhol Karipbaev
- Department of Psychology, Karaganda State University, Karagandy, Kazakhstan and
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Abstract
This study explored (1) the incidence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) resulting from past trauma among older patients with COPD and (2) whether PTSD and COPD severity would relate to psychiatric co-morbidity and health-related quality of life. Eighty-five older patients completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Chronic Respiratory Questionnaire, the Posttraumatic Stress Diagnostic Scale and the Medical Outcomes Short Form 12. The results showed that 55, 39 and 6 % had no, partial and full-PTSD respectively. Partial least squares showed that PTSD was significantly correlated with COPD severity which in turn was significantly correlated with health-related quality of life and psychiatric co-morbidity. Mediational analysis showed that the emotional symptoms of COPD mediated between PTSD and the mental health functioning of health-related quality of life and between PTSD and depression. To conclude, PTSD from past trauma was related to the severity of COPD for older patients. In particular, it impacted on the elevated emotional arousal of COPD severity. In turn, COPD severity impacted on older patients' general psychological well-being and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Cheung Chung
- Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Ho Tim Building, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong.
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Chung MC, Di X, Wan KH. Exploring the interrelationship between alexithymia, defense style, emotional suppression, homicide-related posttraumatic stress disorder and psychiatric co-morbidity. Psychiatry Res 2016; 243:373-81. [PMID: 27449006 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2016.05.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2015] [Revised: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the interrelationship between alexithymia, defense style, emotional suppression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following homicide and psychiatric co-morbidity. One hundred and fifty male homicide perpetrators and 156 male perpetrators of non-violent crime completed the Posttraumatic Stress Diagnostic Scale (except for non-violent perpetrators), the General Health Questionnaire-28, the Defense Styles Questionnaire, the Courtauld Emotional Control Scale and the Toronto Alexithymia Scale-20. The results showed that 44% of homicide perpetrators met the criteria for PTSD. No significant differences were found between groups in alexithymia, defense style and psychiatric co-morbidity. Homicide perpetrators suppressed depression significantly more than the non-violent group. PLS analyses showed that alexithymia was significantly correlated with defense style. Defense styles were significantly correlated with emotional suppression which, in turn, was associated with homicide-related PTSD and psychiatric co-morbidity. To conclude, perpetrators can experience PTSD reactions following the act of homicide. The severity of these reactions and other psychological problems were related to difficulty getting in touch with distressing emotions, the defenses they used to protect themselves psychologically and the way they suppressed their emotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Cheung Chung
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Department of Educational Psychology, Ho Tim Building, Faculty of Education, Shatin NT, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaohu Di
- Faculty of Law, Nanjing University, People's Republic of China
| | - King Hung Wan
- Adjunct Researcher, Institute of Crime Prevention & Control, Faculty of Law, People's Republic of China
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Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the association between traumatic stress and death anxiety among residents who were exposed to a train crash in Stafford, England. Sixty-six community residents were interviewed using the Impact of Event Scale (IES), the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) and the Death Anxiety Scale (DAS). The results showed that the IES scores of the community residents were significantly lower than the standardized Stress Clinic samples, while they were significantly higher than the standardized medical student samples. Thirty-five percent of residents scored at or above the GHQ cutoff point. The community residents' total death anxiety score was significantly higher than the standardized sample of apartment house residents and was no different from the sample of psychiatric patients. Correlation tests showed no association between death anxiety and traumatic stress. The article ended with some remarks on issues relating to data comparison.
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Chung MC, Jalal S, Khan NU. Posttraumatic stress symptoms, co-morbid psychiatric symptoms and distorted cognitions among flood victims of different ages. J Ment Health 2016; 26:204-211. [PMID: 26940708 DOI: 10.3109/09638237.2016.1149803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In literature, the effect of age on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is inconclusive; the effect on flood-related PTSD is particularly unclear. Little is known on distorted cognitions among flood victims, although cognition distortions and PTSD have been linked among victims of other traumas. AIMS To investigate: (1) whether flood-related PTSD, psychiatric co-morbidity and cognitive distortions would differ according to age and (2) distinctive patterns of association between the preceding variables for different age groups. METHODS One hundred and fifty-four flood victims of different ages completed standardized questionnaires measuring PTSD, psychiatric co-morbidity and cognitive distortions. RESULTS Adolescents and young adults reported significantly fewer PTSD, psychiatric co-morbidity and distorted cognition symptoms than people who were older. Preoccupation with danger and hopelessness were associated with both outcomes for adolescents, people in their thirties and middle-aged/older people. For young adults, helplessness was associated with PTSD; hopelessness and preoccupation with danger with psychiatric co-morbidity. CONCLUSIONS Adolescents and young adults buffered against flood-related psychological distress better than older people. Distorted cognitions related to distress outcomes differently depending on age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Cheung Chung
- a Department of Educational Psychology , The Chinese University of Hong Kong , Shatin NT , Hong Kong
| | - Sabeena Jalal
- b Medical and Dental College, Bahria University , Karachi , Pakistan , and
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Studley B, Chung MC. Posttraumatic Stress and Well-Being Following Relationship Dissolution: Coping, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms From Past Trauma, and Traumatic Growth. Journal of Loss and Trauma 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/15325024.2013.877774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Blakely G, Hennessy C, Chung MC, Skirton H. Adaption and adjustment of military spouses to overseas postings: an online forum study. Nurs Health Sci 2014; 16:387-94. [PMID: 24636280 DOI: 10.1111/nhs.12122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2013] [Revised: 10/29/2013] [Accepted: 11/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Little research has examined the impact of being an accompanying spouse on British military foreign postings. The aim of this qualitative study was to investigate the experiences of 13 military spouses from 11 different overseas locations. Data were collected via an online forum and thematic content analysis was conducted. Key findings revealed that, regardless of the location, reactions to overseas posting varied considerably and were related to the military spouse's personality and personal circumstances, as well as their relationship with family, husband and their support networks. Spouses experienced a loss of control over their lives that was in some cases psychologically distressing. The findings corroborate and extend the findings from a previous study that was limited to one location, further highlighting the need for pre-established support resources from the military and healthcare professionals to be readily accessible for all military spouses. Importantly, such support provision may also facilitate the military spouse in regaining some control over their everyday life, enhancing their well-being and the experience for the family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gillian Blakely
- Faculty of Health and Human Sciences, Plymouth University, Plymouth, UK
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