Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Identifier

1244

Date

2014

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Psychology

Concentration

General Psychology

Committee Member

Brian Doss

Committee Member

Helen Sable

Committee Member

J. Gayle Beck

Abstract

The goal of the present study was to examine ways in which social support might influence trauma symptoms through a variation in the trauma film paradigm. Sixty-seven undergraduate female students in romantic relationships were randomized to watch a stressful film clip depicting a sexual assault either in the presence of their romantic partner (PP) or in the absence of their romantic partner (PA). Analyses showed that the PA and PP condition did not differ in affect or anxiety experienced before, during, or after the film clip. However, the PP condition experienced significantly more intrusive memories of the film than the PA condition. Additionally, condition and the amount of discussion between couples about the film moderated the association between relationship quality and distress following the film. These findings support theories emphasizing interpersonal processes in PTSD and suggest that interpersonal processes have the potential to help or hinder adjustment to a trauma.

Comments

Data is provided by the student.

Library Comment

Dissertation or thesis originally submitted to the local University of Memphis Electronic Theses & dissertation (ETD) Repository.

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