Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Protective and Risk Factors in 18 Survivors of a Plane Crash

• NCJ Number: 246219
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 58 Issue: 5 Dated: September 2013 Pages: 1388-1392
• Author(s): Roberto Catanesi M.D.; Vito Martino M.D.; Chiara Candelli Ph.D.; Giuseppe Troccoli M.D.; Ignazio Grattagliano; Giancarlo Di Vella Ph.D.; Felice Carabellese M.D.
• Date Published: September 2013
• Length: 5 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The aim of this study is to identify protective and risk factors related to the development of posttraumatic stress disorder PTSD on a sample of survivors from a single plane crash.

Abstract

The aim of this study is to identify protective and risk factors related to the development of posttraumatic stress disorder PTSD on a sample of survivors from a single plane crash. Eighteen survivors were examined 6 months following the event. The subjects all underwent psychiatric interviews, Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale structured interviews, personality and cognitive tests. Only 38.9% of them presented with all of the symptoms of PTSD; 22.2% showed no symptoms for PTSD; remaining survivors exhibited emotional/affective symptoms related to the event. In addition to the severity of the traumatic event itself, other risk factors identified were the loss of a relative, the manifestation of depressive symptoms, and the severity of physical injuries sustained. Low levels of hostility and high levels of self-efficacy represented protective factors against developing PTSD. Abstract published by arrangement with Wiley.