How is resilience associated with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and wellbeing for individuals who have experienced childhood trauma?

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James, Rachel (2021). How is resilience associated with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and wellbeing for individuals who have experienced childhood trauma? University of Birmingham. Clin.Psy.D.

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Abstract

Introduction: Childhood trauma has frequently been identified as a risk factor for developing mental health disorders in adulthood. However, research has also recognised that not everyone who experiences childhood trauma will develop mental health disorders with resilience being indicated as a factor which may mediate this relationship.

Method: Individuals who had experienced childhood trauma and were aged between 18 to 25, volunteered to take part in an online survey. Data were collected on their experiences of trauma, current levels of mental health, wellbeing, and resilience. A total of 58 participants completed the study with an average age of 22.45 years (SD = 2.42).

Results: A significant moderate positive association (r = .31, p < .05) was found between childhood trauma and PTSD but not between childhood trauma and depression, anxiety, or wellbeing. Resilience was not found to be a moderator or a mediator between childhood trauma and PTSD; however, a multiple regression model was significant indicating that both resilience (β = -.41, p = .009) and childhood trauma (β = 4.18, p = .004) contribute independently to PTSD.

Conclusion: Although resilience did not mediate or moderate the relationship between childhood trauma and adult mental health difficulties, it has an independent effect on PTSD.

Clinical implications: As childhood trauma is associated with PTSD there are implications for the planning of both reactive and preventative interventions.

Future research: The need for further research into a range of factors, such as resilience and social support, which may be able to offer a protective function for mental health difficulties for individuals who have experienced childhood trauma is indicated.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Clin.Psy.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Clin.Psy.D.

Supervisor(s):