Childhood traumatic events, schemas and complex trauma symptoms- V2
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The relationship between childhood traumatic events, early maladaptive schemas and complex posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms among older adults (>64 years). A mediation analysis
IRAS ID
232957
Contact name
Eleni Vasilopoulou
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
The University of Edinburgh
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 2 months, 1 days
Research summary
Complex Posttraumatic Stress disorder (CPTSD) is a term used to describe a number of difficulties that people experience as a result of long-term exposure to traumatic events. Such difficulties may include re-experiencing of the traumatic event, a persistent sense of threat or difficulties in managing emotions.\nResearch in adults has identified Early Maladaptive Schemas (EMS) as a risk factor which makes people more vulnerable to develop post-traumatic symptoms. EMS are sets of memories, emotions and thoughts regarding oneself, the world and one’s relationship with others. Although, EMS have been shown to make adults more prone to develop post-traumatic symptoms, we have no knowledge of whether this is also true for older adults. \nThe current study will investigate which EMS are associated with more severe CPTSD symptoms. In addition, it will examine whether specific EMS can explain the relationship between early traumatic events and CPTSD symptoms in a sample of older adults. \nOlder adults (age> 64 years) who have experienced childhood traumatic events will be invited to participate. Participants would need to be English speaking, able to participate voluntarily and to provide written informed consent. Older adults with cognitive difficulties e.g. problems with memory, attention, concentration and language will be excluded. Older adults experiencing suicidal thoughts with clear intent to harm themselves will also be excluded. Participants will be recruited through NHS Older People’s Community Mental Health Teams and Day Hospitals across four health boards. Participants will meet with the researcher on one occasion and will be asked to complete four questionnaires, measuring childhood trauma, EMS, CPTSD symptoms as well as a demographic questionnaire. \nA better understanding of the risk factors in the development of trauma symptomatology could increase our knowledge of how to identify and respond to older people with trauma and could guide the focus of future psychological interventions.\n
REC name
North of Scotland Research Ethics Committee 1
REC reference
17/NS/0117
Date of REC Opinion
22 Feb 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion