Citation

Nelson BS, Wangsgaard S, Yorgason JB, Kessler MH, Carter-Vassol E. Am. J. Orthopsychiatry 2002; 72(1): 58-69.

Affiliation

School of Family Studies and Human Services, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506-1403, USA. bnelson@ksu.edu

Copyright

(Copyright © 2002, American Orthopsychiatric Association, Publisher Wiley Blackwell)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

14964595

Abstract

Trauma survivors and their spouses/partners who seek therapy often present with unique dynamics owing to the ongoing effects of previous trauma. This article provides a clinical framework for understanding single-trauma (only 1 partner reports a trauma history) and dual-trauma (both partners report a trauma history) couples. The descriptions of single- and dual-trauma couples were developed through several focus group discussions. Interpersonal patterns characteristic of single- and dual-trauma couples are described. We emphasize the importance of using a "trauma lens" when working with couples and families to avoid overlooking important cues about the individual and systemic effects of traumatic stress.

Language: en