Citation

Dyer KF, Dorahy MJ, Shannon M, Corry M. J. Trauma Dissociation 2013; 14(1): 56-68.

Affiliation

a Trauma Resource Centre, Belfast HSC Trust , Belfast , Northern Ireland.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/15299732.2012.710184

PMID

23282047

Abstract

This study examined the role of prolonged, repeated traumatic experiences such as childhood and sectarian trauma in the development of posttraumatic aggression and self-harm. Forty-four adult participants attending therapy for complex trauma in Northern Ireland were obtained via convenience sampling. When social desirability was controlled, childhood emotional and physical neglect were significant correlates of posttraumatic hostility and history of self-harm. These relationships were mediated by alterations in self-perception (e.g., shame, guilt). Severity of sectarian-related experiences was not related to self-destructive behaviors. Moreover, none of the trauma factors were related to overt aggressive behavior. The findings have implications for understanding risk factors for posttraumatic aggression and self-harm, as well as their treatment.

Language: en