Adult trauma and adult symptoms: Does childhood trauma drive the relationship?

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Date

2006-11

Authors

Klest, Bridget K. (Bridget Kristen)
Allard, Carolyn B. (Carolyn Brigitte), 1968-
Freyd, Jennifer J.

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Abstract

We used structural modeling to examine observed relationships between childhood trauma, adult trauma, and adult dissociation and mental health. We propose a model in which childhood betrayal trauma predicts adult betrayal trauma and dissociation, and dissociation predicts mental health. Paths between adult betrayal trauma and dissociation, and adult betrayal trauma and mental health were set at zero. This model was tested using questionnaire data from 307 undergraduates. The model fit the data very well (comparative fit index = .98, chi-square(df = 8) = 21.99), and performed as well as other less parsimonious models. Alternative equivalent models and implications of these findings are discussed. The pattern of parameter estimates generated for this model suggests that childhood trauma drives the relationship between trauma and symptoms.

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Klest, B., Allard, C., & Freyd, J.J. ( November, 2006). Adult trauma and adult symptoms: Does childhood trauma drive the relationship? Poster presented at the 22nd Annual Meeting of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, Hollywood, CA, November 4-7, 2006.