Dissertation
The effect of posttraumatic stress disorder psychoeducation on the nature and severity of traumatic stress symptoms in a Burundian sample
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Drexel University
Nov 2007
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/etd-2838
Abstract
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) was recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III) in 1980 as a syndrome associated with the experience of a traumatic event (APA, 1980). In recent years, the diagnosis of PTSD has been increasingly applied to diverse cultural settings, even as the validity of the construct sparks controversy and debate. Argument continues over whether the symptoms of PTSD are more driven by universal biological response or cultural factors. A review of the literature that documents recent efforts to identify and treat posttraumatic stress symptoms in diverse populations is provided. Given evidence for the suggestive and iatrogenic effects of some PTSD treatment methods and other interventions, as well as the theoretical support for the presence of social influences germane to cross-cultural research and treatment, it was proposed that PTSD-specific psychoeducation in pre-industrialized settings might diminish otherwise beneficial treatment effects. The present project drew on an indigent, rural Burundian sample and used an experimental design to examine the influence of PTSD psychoeducation on the nature and severity of traumatic stress symptoms reported. Participants were randomized to three conditions: A reconciliation workshop with psychoeducation, a reconciliation workshop without psychoeducation, and a waitlist control. Results showed that participants in the psychoeducation condition experienced a diminished reduction of PTSD symptoms relative to other conditions. There was no differential effect by condition on more general symptoms of anxiety, depression, and somatization symptoms. Secondary hypotheses predicting relationships at baseline between prior exposure to trauma models developed in industrialized societies and the nature and severity of posttraumatic stress symptoms were not supported. The findings are discussed in terms of how they might inform intervention development for traumatic stress in non-industrialized cultural settings
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Details
- Title
- The effect of posttraumatic stress disorder psychoeducation on the nature and severity of traumatic stress symptoms in a Burundian sample
- Creators
- Peter Douglass Yeomans - DU
- Contributors
- Evan M. Forman (Advisor) - Drexel University (1970-)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Psychological and Brain Sciences (Psychology); College of Arts and Sciences; Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 2838; 991014632388504721