Trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder in people with schizophrenia

Sandra Gail Resnick, Purdue University

Abstract

Although the rate of trauma in the general population is substantial, individuals with schizophrenia are especially vulnerable to episodes of trauma and the consequent effects, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Schizophrenia in itself is a debilitating illness, and those with trauma and PTSD may have even greater deficits. In the current study, it was hypothesized that trauma and PTSD severity would be positively associated with schizophrenia symptoms, based on a stress-diathesis model of schizophrenia. Further, it was hypothesized that disruptions in cognitive schema would mediate this relationship. A volunteer sample of 65 individuals with a chart diagnosis of schizophrenia was recruited from 6 community mental health centers. Valid data were obtained for 47 (72%) participants. Of these, 35 (74%) reported at least one Criterion A event (e.g., threat of harm or life-threat, and subjective distress) and 6 (13%) had current PTSD. Severity of schizophrenia symptoms generally were uncorrelated with severity of PTSD symptoms. However, PTSD symptoms were significantly correlated with a measure of general distress. Trauma exposure was not related to schizophrenia symptoms. Disruptions in cognitive schema did not mediate the relationship between trauma and PTSD, although it was significantly and moderately correlated with both. This study supports the high rates of trauma documented in prior research, but found modest rates of PTSD. However, trauma and PTSD appear to be related to higher levels of general distress, suggesting the need to develop interventions for trauma and PTSD in individuals with schizophrenia.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Bond, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Psychotherapy

COinS